What Are The Most Common Mental Illnesses?

Mental illnesses come in many different forms. And they are more common than many of us realize – according to one Harvard study, 50% of us are likely to experience a mental illness at some point in our lives. 

This post explores 7 of the most common mental illnesses suffered by people around the world – along with their symptoms, the amount of worldwide sufferers and treatment options. 

Schizophrenia (20 million people)

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that causes people to see, hear and believe things that are not real. It usually first affects people while they are still quite young. 20 million people globally are believed to be diagnosed with this condition. Antipsychotic medication and therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are commonly used to treat schizophrenia. 

Obsessive compulsive disorder (25 million people)

More referred to as OCD, this condition causes people to develop irrational thoughts which leads to repetitive behaviors. Examples of behaviors including constantly checking locks, repeatedly washing one’s hands, arranging belongings in specific ways or hoarding. 25 million people around the world are believed to have this condition. A number of therapists specialize in helping those with OCD overcome their condition and could be worth looking into if you suffer. 

Bipolar disorder (60 million people)

Bipolar disorder is a condition characterized by intense mood swings. People with this disorder may have hypomanic episodes where they are overly excited, which are contrasted by depressive episodes where they feel incredibly low. It’s believed that around 60 million people globally have this condition. Taking mood stabilizers and exploring a range of different therapies may help to manage this condition. 

Eating disorders (70 million people)

Eating disorders include a range of different disorders that result in an unhealthy relationship with food. This includes binge-eating, anorexia and bulimia. Roughly 70 million people are believed to have an eating disorder. Overcoming such a disorder involves accepting that one has a mental illness – there are specialist therapists you can then seek out to overcome your disorder.

Depression (264 million people)

Depression is a persistent sadness that causes people to lose interest in things that once brought them pleasure and potentially give up on socialization and self care. It is believed that more than a quarter of a billion people around the world have depression. Finding the motivation to fight depression can be hard as this disease takes away all your motivation. However, those who are able to find the strength to get help can pursue therapy to overcome this condition or try taking antidepressants. 

Anxiety disorders (301 million people)

An anxiety disorder causes people to have excessive feelings of dread and terror around everyday activities – which in some cases can lead to panic attacks. Examples of anxiety disorders include GAD (generalized anxiety disorder), social anxiety and specific phobias like agoraphobia. 301 million people around the world are believed to suffer from anxiety. It’s worth looking into clinics and counsellor that offer anxiety treatment near you. This may involve undergoing therapy or taking medication. 

Post traumatic stress disorder (770 million people)

More commonly known as PTSD, this is believed to be one of the most widespread mental illnesses. It consists of intrusive memories, nightmares and flashbacks caused by a traumatic event and potentially triggered by everyday reminders. War, abuse, car accidents, grief and even childbirth can cause PTSD. This type of mental health disorder typically requires specialist therapy to overcome. If you think you may have PTSD, see your doctor to get diagnosed and explore local treatment options.