What You Should Know About Mental Disorders - Understanding Mental Disorders

What is mental illness?  Experts define a mental disorder as a significant dysfunction in a person's thinking, emotional control, and behavior. The condition often disrupts a person's ability to relate to others and to deal with the demands of life.

The severity of symptoms can vary in length and intensity, depending on the individual and the particular ailment and circumstances. It can affect people of any gender, age, culture, race, religion, or educational and income level. Mental-health disorders are not the result of personal weakness or a character flaw. Through appropriate medical care, individuals can be treated and can live a productive life.

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