COMMON BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
Many people who have behavioral or mental health disorders consider them to be a normal part of their life or avoid treatment out of shame or fear. But you don’t have to live with your symptoms.
Below are some examples of common behavioral health conditions. If you’re concerned about your mental health, please do not hesitate to seek support.
DEPRESSION
Not all periods of sadness lead to depression or need treatment. But when feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and sadness interfere with your ability to work, sleep, eat or enjoy life, you may benefit from talking to your doctor. Depression can affect anyone at any time. Fortunately, depression is treatable with counseling and/or medication.
ANXIETY
Feeling nervous or anxious is a normal emotion and is often a reaction to life events around school, work, and family life. But when worrying and fear become overwhelming and interfere with your ability to sleep, work, and enjoy life, it’s time to talk with your doctor. Generalized anxiety disorder can affect anyone at any time and is treatable with counseling and/or medication.
SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER
This involves using legal or illegal substances to the point where you become dependent and experience withdrawal symptoms if you don’t have them – or if you find your usage is increasing and affecting your daily life. Common substance use disorders include the use of alcohol, opioids, marijuana, tobacco, and illegal street drugs such as heroin. When you seek help from your doctor for substance use disorders, as with any behavioral health need, the information you share with providers is kept strictly confidential.
ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD)
ADHD is an inability to stay focused and on task at school, work, or home. It may be accompanied by feelings of restlessness, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention that can cause distress. ADHD is a common behavioral health disorder that can affect adults as well as children. Talk to your doctor about treatment, including counseling and medication.
AUTISM
If your child is having increased and persistent challenges in social interaction, speech, and nonverbal communications, and has restricted or repetitive behaviors, it’s time to talk to your doctor about having your child tested for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is a developmental condition that is usually first diagnosed in childhood. Autism is a lifelong condition; however, many children diagnosed with ASD go on to live independent, productive, and fulfilling lives.
