Relationships, work, school and home life can suffer as a result of mental illnesses. Thousands of people live with mental illnesses every day, and some are not even aware, themselves, of the problem. However, unlike the images we often see in books, on television and at the movies, most people with mental illnesses can lead productive, fulfilling lives with proper treatment and support. Types of Mental Illness. Recognizing and understanding mental illnesses is the first step.
Major depression causes people to feel hopeless, exhausted and useless.
More than changes in mood, major depression can cause problems with sleep, appetite, self-esteem, daily activities and physical health. Hyperactivity, scattered ideas, easy distraction, irritability and recklessness also occur in bipolar disorder during manic episodes. Anxiety disorders come in many forms and may be experienced differently in each person. However, their common factor is a feeling of constant terror, dread or worry beyond one's normal reactions to danger. Phobias are irrational fears of objects or situations that cannot be overcome with reasonable explanations or actions.