Mental health disorders

Suicide

🔴 Symptoms (Warning Signs)

Verbal expressions of despair or thoughts of wanting to end one’s life
Social withdrawal, isolation
Loss of interest in usual activities
Sudden mood or behavior changes
Giving away belongings or saying goodbye
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Sleep disturbances, agitation, excessive fatigue

🔴 Treatment (Management)

Immediate assessment by a mental health professional
Psychotherapy (CBT, supportive therapies, etc.)
Medication if underlying depression, anxiety disorders, or bipolar disorder
Regular follow-up by a multidisciplinary team
Hospitalization in case of immediate danger
Enhanced family and social support

📌 Summary

Definition: Suicide is the voluntary act of ending one’s own life. It often results from deep psychological distress linked to mental disorders, crisis situations, or prolonged social isolation.
Population affected: It can affect all age groups but is particularly common among adolescents, young adults, and the elderly. Men have a higher suicide rate, while women attempt suicide more frequently.
Common causes: Depression, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse, history of trauma, social pressure, isolation, poverty, chronic illnesses, or persistent pain.

🔴 Prevention

Talk openly about suicidal thoughts with a professional
Strengthen support networks (family, friends, associations)
Set up regular psychological follow-up
Limit access to lethal means
Inform and raise awareness among the population about warning signs
Establish helplines and emergency hotlines

Major depressive disorders

🔴 Symptoms

Persistent intense sadness or a feeling of emptiness
Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities
Fatigue, lack of energy, slowed movements
Decreased concentration or attention
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
Changes in appetite and weight
Excessive guilt or feelings of worthlessness
Dark thoughts or suicidal ideation

🔴 Treatment

Psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, etc.)
Medication (antidepressants under medical supervision)
Psychosocial support and family involvement
Regular follow-up with a mental health professional
Regular physical activity and a healthy lifestyle
In severe cases: hospitalization or combined therapies

📌 Summary

Definition: Major depressive disorders are psychiatric conditions characterized by a persistently depressed mood, loss of interest, intense fatigue, and cognitive or physical disturbances. They can significantly affect daily life and social functioning.
Affected population: All age groups can be affected, but prevalence is higher among young adults and women. A family history is a significant risk factor.
Common causes: Chemical imbalances in the brain (serotonin, dopamine), genetic factors, traumatic or stressful events, isolation, hormonal disorders, chronic illnesses, substance use.

🔴 Prevention

Early recognition of symptoms and prompt consultation
Strengthening social connections and emotional support
Stress management techniques and relaxation
Regular participation in physical and creative activities
Psychological follow-up for at-risk individuals (loss, burnout, history, etc.)
Avoiding prolonged isolation

Schizophrenia

🔴 Symptoms

Hallucinations (often auditory: hearing voices)
Delusions (false beliefs, e.g., paranoia, grandeur)
Disorganized thinking and speech
Agitated, incoherent, or catatonic behavior
Social withdrawal and lack of emotional expression (flat affect)
Reduced motivation and initiative
Difficulties with concentration, memory, or attention

🔴 Treatment

Long-term prescription of antipsychotic medications
Regular and personalized psychiatric follow-up
Psychosocial and rehabilitation therapies
Family support and community interventions
Treatment of addictions if present
Support for professional or educational integration

📌 Summary

Definition: Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe psychiatric disorder characterized by disruptions in thinking, perception (hallucinations), behavior, and emotions. It can lead to a break from reality and social withdrawal.
Affected population: It typically begins between the ages of 15 and 30 and affects both men and women. About 1% of the global population is affected.
Common causes: Genetic factors, neurochemical imbalances (dopamine), perinatal complications, adolescent drug use, environmental stress, and social isolation.

🔴 Prevention

Early identification of warning signs in adolescents and young adults
Avoidance of drug use (e.g., cannabis, LSD)
Prompt intervention during first psychotic episodes
Psychosocial support for at-risk families
Stress reduction and a stable environment
Easy access to psychiatric care for vulnerable populations

Anxiety disorders

🔴 Symptoms

Persistent excessive worry that is difficult to control
Palpitations, feeling of tightness or chest pain
Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep or unrefreshing sleep)
Restlessness, muscle tension, headaches
Trouble concentrating and irritability
Phobias, panic attacks, or fear of social situations
Avoidance of situations perceived as threatening

🔴 Treatment

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Relaxation, meditation, and breathing techniques
Anxiolytic or antidepressant medications if needed
Regular physical activity
Psychological support and personalized care
Therapeutic education on stress management

📌 Summary

Definition: Anxiety is a disorder characterized by excessive, persistent, and hard-to-control worry, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, sleep disturbances, and restlessness.
Affected Population: People of all ages can be affected, with a higher prevalence among young adults and women.
Common Causes: Chronic stress, challenging life events, genetic predisposition, neurochemical imbalances, excessive consumption of stimulants, and sometimes co-occurring psychiatric conditions.

🔴 Prevention

Avoid overload of work or responsibilities
Adopt a healthy lifestyle (sleep, diet, exercise)
Avoid stimulating substances (coffee, alcohol, drugs)
Learn to manage emotions and negative thoughts
Encourage open dialogue and seek consultation at early signs
Strengthen self-esteem and personal confidence

Bipolar disorders

🔴 Symptoms

Alternation between phases of mania (excitement) and depression
Mania: excessive euphoria, agitation, decreased need for sleep
Grandiose ideas, impulsive or dangerous behavior
Depression: intense sadness, loss of energy, general disinterest
Suicidal thoughts during depressive phases
Rapid and unpredictable mood changes

🔴 Treatment

Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium, valproate)
Antipsychotics or antidepressants depending on the phases
Psychotherapy: cognitive-behavioral therapy, family support
Therapeutic education to recognize early warning signs
Regular medical follow-up with a psychiatrist
Avoid psychoactive substances (drugs, alcohol)

📌 Summary

Definition: Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric illness characterized by alternating episodes of mania (excitement, elevated mood) and deep depression. These significant mood swings affect thinking, behavior, and social life.
Affected population: The disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood and affects men and women equally. It affects about 1 to 2% of the population.
Common causes: Genetic factors, neurochemical imbalances, significant stress, and traumatic or disruptive life events.

🔴 Prevention

Maintain a stable routine: sleep, meals, activity
Avoid prolonged stressful situations
Adhere to the prescribed medication treatment
Consult a doctor at the first signs of relapse
Inform and involve family or close ones in the follow-up
Participate in support or self-help groups