Psychiatric Disorders - Causes

What causes psychiatric disorder

The exact cause of most psychiatric disorders in not known. Mental health experts believe that psychiatric disorders result from a combination of genetic or inherited dispositions and a triggering event. Triggering events may include environmental factors, stresses of various kinds, and even physical health problems. The line between physical health and mental health is becoming more blurred as research continues in the area of finding causes for psychiatric disorders.

What are the risk factors for psychiatric disorders?

A number of factors are thought to increase your chances of developing a psychiatric disorder. However, not everyone with risk factors will develop a psychiatric disorder. Common risk factors are:

Difficult temperament
External or environmental factors, such as poverty, poor nutrition, overcrowding, abuse, or neglect
Genetic or inherited predisposition such as having a parent with a psychiatric disorder
Low birth weight
Prenatal exposure to alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco, and certain viruses and toxins
Severe parental discord
Trauma, either physical or mental
Unsatisfactory relationships, especially within the family

Reducing your risk of psychiatric disorders

If you have or are at risk of developing a psychiatric disorder, leading a healthy lifestyle is important. This includes learning to use stress management techniques, eating a balanced diet, not using drugs or drinking to excess, getting adequate exercise and sleep, and getting regular medical care.

INTRODUCTION

What are psychiatric disorders?

The term psychiatric disorder means a mental disorder or illness that interferes with the way a person behaves, interacts with others, and functions in daily life. Psychiatric disorders are also sometimes known as mental health disorders or mental health illnesses. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association, classifies psychiatric disorders. The latest version, DSM-IV-TR, lists the following categories of mental disorders:... Read more about psychiatric disorders introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of psychiatric disorders?

Symptoms of psychiatric disorders rarely occur suddenly. In most cases, symptoms develop over time. Close friends and family members of people with psychiatric disorders may realize that something is wrong or not quite right before the disorder itself is recognized. Recognizing early warning signs and getting help may prevent the disorder from becoming serious and may even save a life.... Read more about psychiatric disorders symptoms

TREATMENTS

How are psychiatric disorders treated?

The first step in treating psychiatric disorders is getting a complete physical examination to rule out any physical diseases or conditions that may be causing symptoms. This may include extensive testing and follow-up appointments.... Read more about psychiatric disorders treatments