Psychological Disorders in Psychology

Symptoms, Treatments, & Statistics of Psychological Problems

Mar 17, 2007
Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen

Psychological Disorders in Psychology - sxc lusi

This list of psychological disorders in psychology includes mental illnesses such as depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, mania, phobias, and anxiety disorders.

In psychology, psychological disorders range from post traumatic stress syndrome to common phobias.

This guide to various psychological disorders serves as an introduction to mental illness, both mild and severe. At the end of this list is a description of the DSM-IV (the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).

Schizophrenia

Depression

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorders

Obsessive Compulsive Disorders

Anxiety & Panic Disorders

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Anorexics' Brains Are Different

Unusual Psychological Disorders

Miscellaneous

Getting Help With Psychological Disorders

Diagnosing and treating psychological disorders is an objective procedure involving past research and experience. That knowledge of psychologcial disorders has been combined into a large, comprensive manual called the DSM-IV.

Diagnosing and Treating Psychological Disorders: DSM-IV

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) is published by the American Psychiatric Association. It's a comprehensive tome of all mental health and psychological disorders in adults and children. Not only does it list the names and symptoms of psychological disorders, it also includes possible causes, treatments, statistics, and research.

The DSM-IV has been called the psychiatrist's Bible because it increases understanding of patients, treatments, and even 3rd party insurance payers. Psychological disorders are classified and explained.

There are 5 Axes in the DSM-IV that cover psychological disorders:

Axis 1. Clinical Syndromes, also known as the diagnosis of the psychological disorder.

Axis 2. Developmental Disorders & Personality Disorders. Developmental disorders typically occur in childhood, and can affect physical, intellectual, and emotional development (eg, autism, Down's Syndrom). Personality disorders have long lasting symptoms that affect one's interaction in the world.

Axis 3. Physical Conditions (such as brain injuries or physical impairments). Some psychological disorders spring from physical aspects, others have unknown causes.

Axis 4. Severity of Psychosocial Stressors, including events in the patient's life: deaths, divorces, traumas, celebrations, new beginnings, etc. Lifestyle affects most psychological disorders.

Axis 5. Highest Level of Functioning describes how well the person functions at present and within the last year, with the psychological disorder.

The DSM-IV is not necessarily involved in the diagnosis and treatment of all psychological disorders - it depends on the psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor. Whether or not an official DSM-IV diagnosis is made, it may be important to obtain objective support on any psychological condition or psychological disorder.

Psychological Disorders & Psychological Counseling

Unfortunately, there's a great deal of stigma attached to counseling for psychological disorders -- or psychological disorders in general! Mental illnesses are often embarrassing -- few people are thrilled to tell their friends and family they're seeing a "shrink"! It's also painful to delve into the depths of your soul or apply cognitive behavioral theories to your life, even if the psychological disorder can be overcome this way. Finally, counseling for psychological disorders can be expensive; not many insurance providers cover the cost easily. Overcoming the hurdles of seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist can be extremely valuable to your whole self - not just your mind and emotions, or the psychological disorder. Your physical health is intricately connected to your mind and soul, so dealing with one aspect of your self invariably boosts other parts.

Just like a physical disease like cancer, a psychological disorder can hit anyone at any time in their life, regardless of how wealthy, happy, or well-adjusted they are. It's the luck of the draw - just like many things in life.

If you found Psychological Disorders helpful, you might try:

Psychological Motivation
I Thought It Was Just Me

Laurie Pawlik Kienlen, Psychology Feature Writer, Bruce Kienlen

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen - Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen is a full-time writer and blogger in Vancouver, BC, and the creator of the Quips and Tips blog series.

Comments

Nov 22, 2008 10:58 AM

Guest :

Which of the following statements describes a serious contemporary dilemma regarding psychological disorders?

A) Most psychologists agree that the legal grounds for diminished responsibility should be expanded but adequate accommodation for society's needs must be made.

B) Disorders are rising earlier and earlier in life but treatment options are too limited for children.

C) More people should be diagnosed with disorders but we can no longer lock people up against their will.

D) Internet addiction is a true disorder, analogous to drug addiction or any other compulsive behavior, but the DSM panel will not recognize it.

May 31, 2009 12:13 PM

Guest :

I believe my father might have Borderline Personality Disorder, he and my mother are separated mainly because he is an alcoholic. He has difficulty understanding and relating to other even his own children and does not understand who he is and is constantly searching for a meaning in his life. every time he drinks he goes through a cycle of guilt that ultimately involves him crying and begging for forgiveness, yet he continues to abuse alcohol and on occasions cocaine- (it has been 3 years since my mother asked him to quit drinking) I believe he might have suicidal tendencies and he has ridiculous mood swings. the ironic thing is he used to be a councilor for the state hospital and for drug addicts. I want him to seek help for not only his drug abuse but for his mental health, I don’t know how to talk to him or my mother about it (I don’t have the best relationship with him) I just need some feed back im literally at my wits end with always having to deal with him and his neurotic tendencies. His problems have affected not only me but my younger sister as well and i just don’t know what to do anymore. Some words of wisdom would be helpful, thanks.

Jun 1, 2009 8:50 AM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

It's so difficult having a parent or sibling with a psychological disorder!

Do you live with him? I think it's important to give yourself physical and emotional space. You can't solve his problem or fix his mental health, and you have to let him live his life -- even if it seems unhealthy or destructive. People with psychological disorders aren't necessarily rational about seeking and accepting help. It's hard for both them and the people who love them.

It may be ironic that he was a drug addict counselor, but it may be that he went into that field because drugs or addictions were familiar to him somehow. People often pick careers that relate to something they were exposed to during their childhoods.

Since you can't talk to your dad, you might consider asking someone he trusts to step in. This could be your aunt, grandparent, godfather, uncle...someone who knows your dad, and who speaks his language.

You might also call your local Addicts Anonymous or distress line, and ask what resources exist in your city. They sometimes have brilliant suggestions about helping family members with psychological disorders!

Finally, I encourage you to get help for yourself. Talk to a counselor about how to square with your past so you can have a healthy, happy future -- and happy, healthy relationships.

I hope this helps a little, and encourage you to update me when you can! I'd love to know how you and he are doing.

Laurie

Jun 26, 2009 11:50 PM

zafariqbal :

Hi
any one tell me how much minimum time is required for treatment og Generalized Anxiety Disorder with different type of therapies (CBT,Behaviour therapy ,Psychoanalysis and conceling)specially when client is just 21 year old .
Regards
zafar

Jun 27, 2009 5:24 AM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi Zafar,

There really isn't any minimum or maximum amount of treatment time for Generalized Anxiety Disorder -- or any psychological disorder or mental illness! It depends on the person, his/her experiences, how long it's been going on, and the psychologist's choice of therapy.

To get a more solid answer to your question, I'd suggest calling the psychologists or counselors you might be working with. Ask what their estimated treatment times are -- they would probably be able to narrow it down better, if they had some background info.

Sorry I can't be more helpful, and good luck,

Laurie

Aug 7, 2009 11:37 AM

Guest :

Hello Laurie,
I'm beginning to research the historical backgrounds of three WWI veterans, all deceased, in order to develop a realistic characterization for a novel. One man consistently referred to himself by name, never the first person, as in "Johnny can do that." Safe to say it was some form of PTSD, but that doesn't get me too far. Is there some recognized syndrome, or a similar case that you've come across? Could this have been a pre-existing condition, exacerbated by battle field trauma? I would appreciate your comments.
Charles Rolston

Aug 7, 2009 3:40 PM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi Charles,

Sounds like an extremely interesting novel you're about to write!

Referring to yourself in the third person is possibly a trait of the narcissistic personality disorder. PTSD can exacerbate any psychological disorder or mental health issue -- or, of course, trigger new ones!

I suggest you research narcissism. A great source of info is "Healthy Place: America's Mental Health Channel." Search for narcissism there; Dr Sam Vaknin is a well-known expert in that personality disorder. He's also very approachable, so if you contact him through the Healthy Place, I'm sure he'd be happy to help you further.

Good luck!

Laurie

Aug 10, 2009 7:41 AM

Guest :

Hi Laurie,
Thanks for the tip - it sounds very promising. I hadn't thought of the narcissism angle, as he presented as almost personality-free. Another aspect of this was watching him in a remote field, playing Caruso on an antique phonograph, eyes closed, birds on his knees, shoulders, nestling around his feet - quite a sight. And your mention of the third person caused me to imagine this narcissism of his manifesting as a child-like "secret friend" perhaps. At least in my book!
Thanks again,
Charles Rolston

Aug 14, 2009 9:03 AM

Guest :

my name is wendy, i have a mother in law that i beleive has a disorder, is there such a disorder where someone subconciously sets themself up to fail so therefore they can be completely dependant on family members? and even when things seem like they are going well, then they have excuses everyday for some reason or another for a family members interaction...kinda like a dog or child that does something wrong just for attention? the bad thing is shes an out of work social worker, she only did it for less than 2 years..the rest of the time shes lived off other people. her sons have tried to help her to the point now shes completely dependant on them and this isnt a new situation. when it comes to tough decisions--she perfers to have other people make them for her. and then she has people to blame for her own life. im not a therapist, or have any mental health training--all i can tell you is that my whole life growing up my mother and my brother both have bi polar disorder, multiple personalies, they are paranoid schzophinics, and ive been taught for years how to pick up on thier behaviors and how to counteract, and help them, and how to not allow their problems to effect me and my life....., please help before we divorce..due to her ability to manipulate her sons.

Aug 14, 2009 8:13 PM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi Wendy,

I'm sorry to hear about the situation with your mother-in-law.

I don't think it's a formal psychological disorder, but some people are certainly focused on sabotaging themselves and have a fear of success! Fear of failure is more commonly known, but fear of success is also quite common.

You're in a tough spot, because you can't do much about your mother-in-law. It's your husband who needs to step up and deal with her behavior before it wrecks your marriage. If he doesn't see that there's anything wrong, then you might consider finding a way to get into couples counseling. You don't necessarily have to go to a psychologist or therapist -- you might find a pastor, rabbi, spiritual director, or other trusted person just as helpful.

Convincing your husband to see your point of view might be more effective if you don't tackle it alone. You need an outside opinion to show him the severity of the situation!

I recently wrote a few suggestions in a post on my Psychology blog, which you might be interested in. To get there, just click on my name in blue at the top of this page, then click on "Read Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen's blog" on the right side. Scroll down to "How Do I Cope With Bad or Toxic Parents?" You can also find it in the August, 2009 list on the side panel.

I wish you all the best, Wendy!

Laurie

Aug 27, 2009 6:25 PM

Guest :

I was wondering what was the name of the disorder is that when other people say that they have something that is wrong with them to the person who has this disorder and then that person with this disorder then thinks that they too have what the other person has? I was just wondering what the disorder was called?

Aug 28, 2009 6:19 AM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi,

Hypochondria or health phobia (also called "medical students disease" because they learn about illnesses and think they have that illness) is the first thing that springs to my mind, based on your description.

Hypochondria is mostly associated with physical diseases, though. I'm not sure if there is an actual psychological disorder that is similar to hypochondria, but relates only to emotional health. I'll do some research -- and if I do find a psychological disorder like this, I'll be back to update you! But off the top of my head, hypochondria seems to suit your description the best.

Laurie

Sep 8, 2009 12:47 PM

Steve Simms :

I'm trying to "label" this "friend" of ours...we all know she has a problem. I started out as friends of her sister and she filled me in. OK, she's a 100% major flake. She is 29, lives at home. She'll call, you, text you, etc. make plans and then walk right by you an hour later like she doesn't know you. I've had strangers (sort of) ask me what is "her deal" and tell me similar stories. Her sister told me she was made fun of in school b/c she had some major freckles on her face and one side of her face looked strange. She would go home crying. But, now she's almost 30 and she just acts strange. She has zero real friends. I always treated her nice, talked to her, tried to be a good friend. But she started that flaky behavior and I got frustrated. She does this to EVERYBODY. She hangs out with people and then the next day just stops answering her phone. On the night before Katrina came she didn't answer her phone, even after I was with her all day. I thought that was odd at the time. Then her boyfriend left her, had some health issues and she started clinging to me for a friend. And then BAM, she started pulling that BS. One day she called me numerous times, made plans with me and friends, came to the meeting spot and walked right by me without saying a word. Then took off with some guys. I got angry, and next day she called and told me some lie...she's always lying and a bad lair to boot. Everyone asks me "what the heck is worng with her??" I'm trying to "label" it. Her sister told me some really strange stories about her, and stuff she did to her friends and why they stopped hanging out with her. Very strange behavior. Basically make plans and then stop answering her phone that night and the other friend would become frustrated and start calling her sister to see what the heck is going on. I believe in psychology but part of me just says "she's just a Flake, plain and simple." Like her sister says, she doesn't see anything wrong in her behavior. Everyone can see it. It's hard to explain in one post, but just take my word for it this is a strange girl. She has no feelings of guilt, or remorse. I feel bad for her but her life's disaster is her own doing. Anxiety disorder? I've been reading up on personality disorders. I honestly think she needs someone to talk to, and when asked her sister said her family has thought about getting her some help but really, they're just enablers to me. They make apologies for her behavior but do nothing,they're scared of her.

Sep 9, 2009 7:25 PM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi,

Your friend sounds like she’s dealing with a few issues, and her family may not know how to help her. I don’t know what psychological disorder she’s struggling with – or if she’s just a flake, like you say -- and I suspect it’d take a psychologist or doctor to pinpoint exactly what’s going on.

It’s great that you’re trying to be her friend, and I’m sorry that she’s not more responsive. Often people who are dealing with mental health issues don’t realize the impact they’re having on others, and they don’t know how to interact appropriately. Social skills aren’t high on the list!

You may just have to accept that your friend is strange, and not expect anything more from her – except more strange behavior. That’s who she is.

If you’d like to learn more about helping her, you might find “Resources for Helping People With Psychological Disorders” helpful. To read it, click on my name in blue at the top of this page. Click on "Read Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen's blog" on the right side. Scroll down to the article. It’s also in the July, 2009 list on the side panel.

Best wishes,
Laurie

Sep 10, 2009 6:17 PM

Steve Simms :

Thanks for the response Laurie. I'll read that, and I also have a friend who's a psychologist, I've thought about asking her. She's acted this way for many, many years, not just of late. Right now, we're not friends b/c of her behavior. I let it get to me. She's 100% incapable of saying Thank You or giving gratitude and people take it as selfish. She also "plans" stuff to do to people. I mean, she plots to befriend somebody, then flakes on them on purpose. Strange I know. Like, to get back at people she'll go find them, male plans and then never arrive/stop answering her phone. She's mentioned stuff like this to me before, and even done it to me but I knew "what was up." Her sister has told me repeatedly, it's b/c of her childhood. But, I know people her had worse childhood situations and are just fine. She spends all her money on clothes...thousands each year on expensive clothes AND I read this was a symptom of anxiety disorder, I believe. It's sad, b/c her reputation is of a "strange girl" and it's not b/c of her appearance (she had some lazer surgery) or anything but her attitude. If anyone tried to talk to her, I'm sure she'd just blow up and leave. She has wild mood swings, also. There's so much more to the story. I just feel if she doesn't get help she'll be in her 40s living at home(she has a good job but wastes all her money), and by then be WAY worse than she is now, as IMHO this stuff doesn't get "better" or just go away.

Sep 17, 2009 7:52 AM

Guest :

we're a 5 member family ,i have a brother who is so much close to my father, my father traveled to another country for work for 5 month,the day he arrived my brother started to be different, almost doesnt talk stop interracting with us, loses his pleasue in everything, doesnt want to go out even for a picnic, he dosnt even look at his cell phone and i found him deleting all the messages, he stoppped sitting on the computer to play his favourite games stopped logging on to the internet, he doesnt answer the phone our home phone, and we try to make him laugh but he produce a very weak reaction what's that case, is he trying to tell my dad dont travel again i need u???

Sep 17, 2009 1:49 PM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi,

I’m sorry your brother seems to be struggling so much right now, but it’s not possible for me to say what’s really going with him. The internet is a wonderful place to get basic information about psychological disorders and mental health issues, but specific help for specific individuals has to come from in-person counseling.

Have you tried asking your brother what’s wrong? Has anyone talked to him, perhaps going out for a walk or a cup of coffee? The best way to find out what’s bothering someone is to go directly to them and talk about it.

Why don’t you try talking to him – and maybe even talking to your father or mother – and see if that uncovers any reason he’s changed his behavior so drastically.

Another possibility is to talk to a teacher you trust, a counselor, or even calling a help line. If you’re worried about your brother’s mental health, you might need to reach out to experts who can help him and your family.

I’m sorry I can’t be more helpful, and I wish you all the best.

Laurie

Sep 22, 2009 9:57 PM

Guest :

I think my brother may be suffering from some sort of psychological disorder. Within the past few weeks he has been talking about this enlightening stage that he is going through. He says that he has "changed" and that my family and I can also change and see what he sees if we start to eat healthy, and stop taking any type of medication. He goes on and on trying to convince my mother and my step-father that he isn't crazy. He says If they trust him and believe in what he is saying that they too will "see" what he is seeing. He recently broke ties with his best friend. He says that his best friend was selfish and he has realized everything. It's to the point that the things that come out of his mouth make absolutely no logical sense and he blames everything that my family does wrong on the fact that we do not eat healthy. The problems dig deaper as he gets into conversations about the government and money and how we are all controlled and do not "see" it. I am desperately trying to figure out if these are signs of mental illness, or if this is just a phase that he is going through. He has even taken it as far as telling me that our step father is not the kind of man my mother should have in her life. He states that our stepfather is hiding things from him. When I asked him what? He cannot explain. He tells me if I changed my diet that I would "see" it for myself. Its an obsession with getting healhy and in turn he thinks that we will realize what the world is really about. He feels as though the reason we are all blinded from the truth is because of the fact that we eat junk food and things that are not healthy for us. Please Help...

Sep 23, 2009 6:25 AM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi,

It definitely sounds like your brother isn’t enjoying a stable, happy existence right now! I don’t know if he has a psychological disorder or mental illness – but I do think he’d benefit from seeing a doctor or counselor.

One way to know if someone is struggling with an emotional or mental issue is their quality of life. Are they happy? Satisfied with life? Enjoying good relationships? Getting along in everyday life? Everyone struggles with sadness, pain, and discomfort in life…but if abnormal behavior and problems are the main focus, then the person might be struggling with something more serious than everyday “angst.”

You might need to talk to your parents about how to get help for your brother. And, you might call a help line or distress line to learn what resources are available in your area.

For more suggestions on helping people with psychological disorders, visit my Psychology blog. I can’t post links to articles here, but I’ve written several on helping people with depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, etc. To get there, just click on my name in blue at the top of this page, then click on "Read Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen's blog" on the right side. Scroll down to “Resources for Helping People With Psychological Disorders” (in the July 2009 side panel).

Best wishes,
Laurie

Oct 3, 2009 8:11 PM

Guest :

hi,i was hoping someone could help me out. my best friend has said he's been experiencing things like talking to himself in his head and writing things down about how he feels and stuff but he writes these things subconsciously im assuming because he doesnt remember doing it at all. with the talking to himself,hes been saying that hes having arguments so to speak with himself. does anyone know what might be going on?

Oct 3, 2009 9:38 PM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi,

I’m afraid that it’s almost impossible to say for sure what’s going on with your friend. Can you encourage him to talk to a doctor or counselor? That’s the best way to support and help him.

Also, be careful not to pin a psychological diagnosis or label on him. If you think he’s depressed or schizophrenic, for instance, you could do him more harm than good. That is, you could start treating him as a person with depression or schizophrenia. Treating him differently or giving him psychological advice isn’t necessarily a good thing.

The best thing to do is help him see a doctor for professional help.

Best wishes,
Laurie

Oct 8, 2009 12:40 PM

Guest :

I broke up from a relationship about 9-10 weeks ago and was feeling very low at the time anyway. I started not sleeping and looked ill so I looked in the mirror to see what had changed. I lost some weight and looked drawn which upset me. I checked the mirror more and more and then thought I can fix the things that are wrong. In instead it turned into an obsession with which i started to see things getting worse and then a fine line got deeper. I went extremely downhill fast and I am still 9 weeks trapped because I can't wash for fear of the mirror or clean my teeth or do anything. I'm so frightened of the damage i am doing because I can't get out of this viscous cycle.

Oct 12, 2009 4:08 AM

Guest :

I have my sister 25yrs. aged. Her behave is quite abnormal, every thing fine for her BUT just her behave is quite odd compair with ordinary people have. Means she can't talk with eye-eye contact, always bowing head, abnormal laughting, slightly odd activities, watching TV etc. Please if have any information please let me know?
Thanks

Oct 20, 2009 12:00 AM

Guest :

I'm not quite sure what problem I have or if I have any at all, maybe what I'm feeling is normal but if doesn't feel right. I have intense mood swings just throughout one day. I can start the day off being happy and full of energy and end it depressed and lazy and agitated. I go through different sleep patterns, sometimes sleeping very good and sometimes not sleeping at all. I am nervous about what others think about me and sometimes think to myself if this is the way everyone thinks or is it just me. I have days were I'm very confident and days were I hate myself. I don't know whats wrong with me but I really could use some advice.
Thanks.

Oct 20, 2009 6:20 AM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi,

I can’t say what’s wrong with you over the internet – you need to talk to someone in person for that, such as a counselor or doctor.

But, it does sound like you’re dealing with some anxiety issues – you might research “Generalized Anxiety Disorder” for more info about that. You might also look for information about manic depression or bipolar disorder. I’m not saying you have those conditions or psychological disorders; I’m just offering things to look into! Again, a counselor or doctor would be able to help you determine what’s going on.

Most (if not all) of us go through periods of anxiety, sadness, insecurity, and exhaustion. But, in normal circumstances those periods of negative emotions are usually brief and don’t negatively affect day to day functioning. They come and go, and people don’t feel like anything is wrong with them.

If your life is negatively impacted by your mood swings and bouts of sleeplessness, then you need to see a doctor. It could be something as simple as changing your diet or lifestyle habits (you’d be surprised at how food affects our moods!). The only way to find out for sure is to talk to your doctor, and take it one step at a time.

I hope this helps a little, and encourage you to talk to someone in person.

Best wishes,
Laurie

Oct 23, 2009 10:39 AM

Guest :

Devlin
What are the odds of an entire family suffering from varoius mental illnesses?
My mother has exhibited obsessive compulsive personality disorder since I was a child. She has an extreme controlling nature, sense of self righteousness and is a hoarder. My older brother has schizoid personality disorder, my fraternal twin sister, paranoid personality disorder(she was also diagnosed by proxy as having munchausen syndome), and my younger brother suffers from paranoid schizophrenia. My uncle and my grandmother on my mother's side of the family seem to suffer from depression. Whenever they come to visit, they just sit around with blank expressions on their faces like mannequins in a store front window with virtually little or nothing to say. As you can imagine, it was very difficult for me growing up in a household I considered to be an asylum.
What I am concerned about is whether my two sons aged 21 and 16 are at risk of becoming mentally ill at some point in their lives. There is no evidence of mental illness on my father's side of the family.
What do you think?

Oct 24, 2009 6:55 AM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi Devlin,

It sounds like your family has more than its fair share of psychological disorders! That’s a lot for you to cope with as both a child and an adult.

I don’t know what the risk of your sons becoming mentally ill is…and I suggest not focusing on that possibility. There’s not much (if anything) you can do to avoid it! That is, it’s not like heart disease that you can possibly prevent by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. If there was something you could do to prevent your sons from becoming ill, then I’d encourage you to try it. But I think many of our children’s psychological disorders occur regardless of what we do as parents to prevent them (eg, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorders).

The tricky thing with psychological disorders is that we’re all abnormal, quirky, odd, and weird to some extent! So if you’re worried about your sons and they do something even slightly off the wall, then you might overreact in fear and more worry. This is why I suggest not being overly concerned about it.

That said, I think that if your sons begin to show signs of not adjusting well to life, are unhappy or depressed, can’t have healthy relationships, etc – then you’ll want to steer them towards helpful resources. They’re both adults (almost), though, which makes it harder to “keep tabs on” and help them.

I just wrote a blog post about coping with family members who have psychological disorders. To read it, just click on my name in blue at the top of this page, then click on "Read Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen's blog" on the right side. Scroll down to “Coping With Family Members Who Have Psychological Disorders” – you’ll also find it in the Oct, 2009 section on the side panel.

I hope this helps a little – and I encourage you to try not to worry about your sons’ mental health. If a problem does arise, you will find the strength and resources to cope with it!

Best wishes,
Laurie

Nov 5, 2009 3:39 PM

Guest :

I am working on a project to compile a list of common psychological disorders as well as prehistoric or ancient treatments and origins of record for those disorders. Do you know of some interesting ones or places that I could look for more information? Thanks for your help! :)

Nov 6, 2009 2:32 AM

Guest :

Hello Laurie,
This is Angela. I was simply wondering what is the term for a kind of phobia for a person who is trying to kill himself/herself in her sleep? I mean, when he/she is awake, condition is perfect. But while in sleep, or should I say drowsiness, they try to commit suicide. I would appreciate a response from you.
Thanks,
Angela Markstupor.

Nov 6, 2009 6:45 AM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

To the guest on Nov 5: My favorite psychology websites for research are The Social Psychology Network, The Encyclopedia of Psychology, and PsychCentral’s Mental Health & Psychology Resources online. I don’t know about ancient or prehistoric treatments or origins of record, but those psychology websites might have that information.

You might also want to interview a clinical psychology professor from a university or college. He or she would have a great deal info about past psychology practices (or at least know where you could do more research).

Good luck with your psychology project, it sounds fascinating!

Nov 6, 2009 6:48 AM

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen :

Hi Angela,

I’m afraid I don’t know of a phobia like the one you describe. I did some research on it, but came up empty.

But, if you try the websites I listed above – The Social Psychology Network, The Encyclopedia of Psychology, and PsychCentral’s Mental Health & Psychology Resources Online – you might find the disorder you’re referring to.

And, I also suggest that you talk to a clinical psychology professor from a university or college – especially one who specializes in sleep disorders. A psychiatrist who works at a mental health organization may also be very helpful to you.

Good luck; I hope you find what you’re looking for.

Nov 7, 2009 12:50 AM

Guest :

i wanna know in psychology, if it is possible to cure someone using some techniques regarding their symptoms of disorder,then u can make a normal person getting upset or psychological disorders using the same kind of reverse techniques??

Aug 29, 2010 3:59 AM

Guest :

My younger sister is very intelligent.she grasps quickly.she is25 yrs. old.she has a problem .whatever she does ,she first gets absorbed in it.later she starts repeating the same thing &can't control herself.soon she gets scared of it&leaves it.since 10 years the same is happening.but 2 years back,when I GOT DIVORCED,she is very upset.I used to share all my problems with her.she stopped worshipping GOD as she can't control herself from repeating the PRAYER again &again.she is unable to sleep. she hardly sleeps 2 hours in night.now she even started repeating her words.she can't stay alone.she starts crying as she can't control herself.she does strange things like moving her neck & eyes again &again,counting&chanting prayer etc.she is a designer but she is not designing now as she moves her hand continuously on paper.she even took homeopathy medicine for 2 yrs.,but of no use.
already my family is facing many problems. kindly help us & tell what is the prblem with her& show the way to make her normal.i will be grateful to you.
thanks

Sep 22, 2010 3:25 PM

Guest :

hi I'm Anne, my mom I think suffers from some type of disorder. it's like she tries to push everyone she loves away. she has recently kicked me out just like she did my sister a while back and she constantly blames everyone but herself. she goes on huge rampages of violence and screaming at me telling me how worthless I am and my father is, who hve been divorced since before I cant remember. I also lost a sibling a few years back and she is an alcoholic, and her weight and appearance has dramatically changed. but she was like this before any of these situations. it is impossible to tell her she has a problem and I don't know what to do. please help!

Oct 1, 2010 2:14 AM

Guest :

Hi, I'm not sure if I will get help, or if anyone can understand what I'm trying to say, but I thought I would post this anyway in case someone reading this can relate. My name is Kitty, I'm 21 years of age with some difficult physical health conditions, such as spine difficulties (it's been damaged when I was a child) and a heart condition. It's driven me in and out of insomnia and narcolepsy, I'm assuming the bodies way of evening the sleeping pattern out sometimes. I know I'm not supposed to diagnose myself so I attempted to see a doctor, who referred me to a specialist. They told me that I'm not coping well physically and mentally with this and other events. Of course I was shocked, in denial and confused. I had never assumed I was mentally different, but on paper, it didn't look good. Suicidal traits/thoughts as young as four years of age, eating abnormalities at 6yrs old, first suicide written/planned out at 11, then attempted failed suicide at 14. With this, paranoia, hallucinations, fits of aggression only between ages 5-10, then the complete opposite, withdrawn and depression. Self harming started at 13, cutting, burning, trying to break my limbs, along with drug alcohol abuse (thanks to rehab I was clear by 15).
The problem was that after coming to terms that this wasn't healthy I discovered another crucial barrier to me getting help. I had severe Sociophobia/Agrophobia. It got so bad, I was starving myself by accident because I was too afraid of going to the shops to eat. I still stay indoors now, I delete people out of my life and cut contact for no reason, I only go out if it means it would have more problems if I didn't, e.g paying bills etc.I've been on medication on and off because I'm too afraid of going to pick it up. I'm physically scared of strangers, I get the shakes if conversation is unavoidable. It's ruining my life. I have only one key person in my life, my partner. We were friends for a few years, he made me feel for once normal and perfect, although we all know it's never true. I've only told him a few things but he tries to empathise or keep my mind 'busy' so I'm not alone with these thoughts.
I'm an intelligent person, as a child I was put through IQ tests etc, at just 10 years of age I had a spelling age of 16, a reading age of 18+, while my classmates were reading Key stage two books, I had already read/actively understood the symbolism in authors such as Steven King, Shakespeare and Edgar Allen Poe. But in a classroom, interaction skills were of an infant. I had no friends until around 14, even then it was no more than a handful. I had trauma in all stages of my life so far personally but didn't deal with it 'normally' which is why I was called by one of my teachers as an 'autistic bitch'. I'm finding it hard to understand why I have so many complex problems, as if the physical ones weren't enough. I'm hoping that someday soon I can close this chapter behind. Yet I still want to understand it first in order to accomplish this.

Nov 7, 2010 4:24 AM

Guest :

I, like one or two people already, am writing a novel and my character has been tortured and he has effecitvley detached himself from his body, speaking of it in the third person, as if his body feels the pain but he doesn't sort of as if he's burrowed into the corner of his mind and hidden from everything his body feels (after extreme pain of torture) i can make something up of course if nothing exists but i was wondering if there is a real mental illness like that?
Thanks in advance

Nov 7, 2010 5:47 AM

Guest :

Dec 2, 2010 5:24 AM

Guest :

I believe my mother might have uncommon psychological disorder. she always says that someone is there at home and is not visible to anyone. she always says that person(which is not there) disturbs and hurt her. she says there is some one and invisible. it's hard to explain in one post. she always talk with herself and sometimes she starts shouting even if there is no one at home.

Mar 1, 2011 12:08 AM

Guest :

Good. I'm seeking help about a person who always lie and always think of himself as a scientist who deals with other renounced scientist . is it a psychological disorder????

Mar 15, 2011 5:06 AM

Guest :

Very educative. I wish we can have a conversation on line regarding psychological disorders and what are the causes of it

Mar 22, 2011 8:10 AM

Guest :

Hi!
I am 29 years old ,married for 6 years. I am going through some sort of psychological problem.I feel everyone close to me is selfish. noone loves for who i am.No one cares for me and my interests.I feel like committing suicide.I work hard for geting their love and at the end I get insulted and feel betrayed.I eat alot when I am tensed and can't sleep at night.I get headaches very often.Please help
Garima
(garima1506@gmail.com)

Apr 26, 2011 9:27 PM

Guest :

Hey laurie, this is a great website you have here, and I appreciate you're helping everyone here.
I was wondering if you can help me too? I believe my friend has a personality disorder. It goes back to his lack of self confidence, he refers to himself as a "dead corpse" having no emotions, yet he's extremely sensitive. He has suicide thoughts, overdoses on pills every night, and the ocassional suicide attempts. He refuses to accept help, and even though i talk with him, it seems as if its doing nothing.
I dont think there is anyone that speaks his voice to get through to him, but can you tell me more about this disorder. Should i keep my space? even if he leads an unhealthy lifestyle? or should I not give up on him, until hes gotten the message? he's been like this for two years...he's completley lost hope. Thanks a lot!

Apr 28, 2011 6:14 AM

Guest :

hello , i am doing some research in to the history of psycholological disorders for a college reprt and was curious as to anyone giving me some advise or any suggestions as to where i could find such information?

May 10, 2011 7:28 PM

Guest :

Which of the following statements describes a serious contemporary dilemma regarding psychological disorders?
A) Most psychologists agree that the legal grounds for diminished responsibility should be expanded but adequate accommodation for society's needs must be made.
B) Disorders are rising earlier and earlier in life but treatment options are too limited for children.
C) More people should be diagnosed with disorders but we can no longer lock people up against their will.
D) Internet addiction is a true disorder, analogous to drug addiction or any other compulsive behavior, but the DSM panel will not recognize it.
Read more at Suite101: Psychological Disorders in Psychology: Symptoms, Treatments, & Statistics of Psychological Problems | Suite101.com http://www.suite101.com/content/psychological-disorders-a16446#ixzz1M0Ugche 3

May 12, 2011 6:44 AM

Guest :

can anyone tell me about a disease in which a youngster of childish mentality forgets about things he do immediately and donot agree even the viewers say so that it happened infront of them????????/

Jul 8, 2011 1:49 AM

Guest :

my room mate.has a spraying disorder..he sprays everything...He will use oil,booze,sweet spray,ect..and he spray couch.clothing,sinks,bath tub,towels,ect..He also puts oil in foods too..I got out box of cookies..He spray oil in it.He put it in my dish soap.shampoo,personal items..It got so bad,,i don't let him stay here that much.Because i had to rewash alot of things.plus.reclean my place..and i got sick from.spray in my foods...I never heard of this mental disorder.What is it?

Nov 17, 2011 7:31 AM

Guest :

I am a 23 year old male.I seem to be having a very weird disorder.Whenever,i wear pants or jeans,i feel heaviness in my head & feel weak.This happens prominently,when i sit on my bike or anywhere in general & when my pant or jeans get lifted when i sit & i feel that the length of my pant is short..This disorder has been happening since some 5 years from the time,i must have injured my leg due to over-exercising.Because of this,i find it hard to concentrate on work & feel miserable as i am not able to get over all this.I have lost a lot of weight of late & i am finding it hard to gain although,i eat well.It probably,is not paresthetica because my clothes are not vry tight.Plz help,as i feel shy to discuss this problem as it might seem to ill-founded to any one who would hear it,not even to my opthalomologist father.Is my condition curable??I feel very miserable.If possible,kindly mail me at khalidaryan2007@rediffmail.com.

Nov 17, 2011 7:24 PM

Khalid Mohammad Qureshi :

I am a 23 year old male.I seem to be having a very weird disorder.Whenever,i wear pants or jeans,i feel heaviness in my head.This happens prominently,when i sit on my bike or anywhere in general & when my pant or jeans get lifted when i sit & i feel that the length of my pant is short..This disorder has been happening since some 5 years from the time,i must have injured my leg due to over-exercising.I used to feel tingling sensation in my legs,weakness & difficulty climbing the stairs & cycling.Now,although,i dnt feel tingling or stuff like that but some problem,in my left leg.I wonder,if its some physical ailment or a psycological one. Because of this,i find it hard to concentrate on work & feel miserable as i am not able to get over all this.I have lost a lot of weight of late & i am finding it hard to gain although,i eat well.It probably,is not paresthetica because my clothes are not vry tight.Plz help,as i feel shy to discuss this problem as it might seem to ill-founded to any one who would hear it,not even to my opthalomologist father.Is my condition curable??I feel very miserable.If possible,kindly mail me at khalidaryan2007@rediffmail.com.

Nov 17, 2011 7:25 PM

Khalid Mohammad Qureshi :

I am a 23 year old male.I seem to be having a very weird disorder.Whenever,i wear pants or jeans,i feel heaviness in my head.This happens prominently,when i sit on my bike or anywhere in general & when my pant or jeans get lifted when i sit & i feel that the length of my pant is short..This disorder has been happening since some 5 years from the time,i must have injured my leg due to over-exercising.I used to feel tingling sensation in my legs,weakness & difficulty climbing the stairs & cycling.Now,although,i dnt feel tingling or stuff like that but some problem,in my left leg.I wonder,if its some physical ailment or a psycological one. Because of this,i find it hard to concentrate on work & feel miserable as i am not able to get over all this.I have lost a lot of weight of late & i am finding it hard to gain although,i eat well.It probably,is not paresthetica because my clothes are not vry tight.Plz help,as i feel shy to discuss this problem as it might seem to ill-founded to any one who would hear it,not even to my ophthalmologist father.Is my condition curable??I feel very miserable.If possible,kindly mail me at khalidaryan2007@rediffmail.com.

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Psychological Disorders in Psychology

Symptoms, Treatments, & Statistics of Psychological Problems

Schizophrenia

Depression

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorders

Anxiety & Panic Disorders

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Unusual Psychological Disorders

Miscellaneous

Getting Help With Psychological Disorders

Diagnosing and Treating Psychological Disorders: DSM-IV

There are 5 Axes in the DSM-IV that cover psychological disorders:

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