What are Mental Health Conditions?

Mental health conditions (also called emotional disorders or mental illnesses) are a collection of disorders characterized by symptoms like sadness, extreme mood swings, disturbances in thought or perception, overwhelming obsessions or fears, or high levels of debilitating anxiety. Just as asthma is a disorder of the lungs, mental illnesses are disorders of the mind which, if untreated, can make it difficult to cope with the ordinary demands of life.

No one knows exactly what causes mental illness. Generally, experts agree that multiple factors influence the development of these illnesses — including genetic factors (meaning that having a family member with a mental illness can sometimes increase the risk of developing one), biochemical factors (meaning that there’s an imbalance in the chemicals in the brain) and/or environmental factors like severe stress or traumatic events that can affect the way the mind works.

Mental health conditions are treatable. Noticing changes in your child’s behavior is a healthy first step to finding the treatment they need. Because college years are a time when many emotional disorders first appear, it is crucial that all parents learn the signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions and what to do if they think their children are struggling with these issues.

Here are links to basic information, including signs and symptoms, of some of the most common mental health conditions:

For Immediate Assistance

Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)