This page provides information on a variety of mental health disorders, offering an overview of each condition along with resources tailored to support understanding, treatment, and recovery. Whether you’re seeking to learn more for yourself or to help someone you care about, these guides are designed to connect you with reliable information and practical tools for mental well-being. But before diving in, why not start with a general overview about mental health? Below, you can find a short video created to do just that—explore the basics of mental health with hope, clarity and a little bit of humor.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress—it’s our body’s way of preparing for challenges or perceived danger. But when those feelings become constant, overwhelming, or start interfering with daily life, it may be an anxiety disorder. Common symptoms include persistent worry, restlessness, racing thoughts, trouble concentrating, and physical sensations like a rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath. Anxiety can show up in different forms, such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, or phobias. The good news is that anxiety is highly treatable through therapy (like CBT), mindfulness practices, support groups, and sometimes medication. Reaching out for help early can make a big difference, and you’re not alone in learning to manage it.
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Depression
Depression is more than feeling sad or down: it’s a serious but treatable mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions day to day. It can cause persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. Depression can look different for everyone—for some, it’s quiet withdrawal; for others, irritability or loss of motivation. It’s not a sign of weakness or something someone can just “snap out of.” With the right support—like therapy, community connection, self-care, and sometimes medication—people with depression can and do recover. Reaching out for help is a powerful first step toward healing.
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OCD
OCD is a mental health condition where a person experiences persistent, unwanted thoughts or fears (called obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (called compulsions). These behaviors—such as checking, counting, or cleaning—are attempts to reduce anxiety or prevent something bad from happening, but they often bring only temporary relief. OCD isn’t about being “neat” or “organized”—it’s about feeling stuck in a distressing cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive actions. While it can be exhausting, effective treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (especially Exposure and Response Prevention), medication, and support groups can help individuals manage symptoms and regain control. Recovery is possible with patience and the right help.
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PTSD
PTSD can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event—such as abuse, violence, an accident, or disaster—that overwhelms their sense of safety. People with PTSD may have flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories, and often feel anxious, detached, or “on edge.” They might avoid reminders of what happened or struggle to trust others. PTSD isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a natural response to an overwhelming experience. Healing takes time, but with trauma-informed therapy, grounding practices, and supportive relationships, recovery is absolutely possible. Many people learn to reconnect with themselves and others, finding strength and meaning beyond the pain.
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Complex PTSD
Complext PTSD, or ‘CPTSD’, can develop after long-term or repeated trauma—such as ongoing abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence—especially during childhood or in situations where escape wasn’t possible. Like PTSD, it involves symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, and avoidance, but it also affects how a person sees themselves and relates to others. People with C-PTSD may struggle with deep shame, emotional numbness, difficulty trusting, or feeling disconnected from their sense of identity. Healing from complex trauma takes time and compassion. Trauma-informed therapy, somatic or mindfulness-based approaches, creative expression, and safe community support can help survivors rebuild a sense of safety and self-worth.
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Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mood condition that causes intense shifts in energy, mood, and activity levels. People with bipolar disorder experience periods of emotional highs (called mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). During manic phases, someone may feel unusually energetic, talkative, or impulsive; during depressive episodes, they may feel sad, drained, or hopeless. These changes can affect relationships, school, and work, but with proper treatment—including medication, therapy, and lifestyle support—people with bipolar disorder can lead stable, fulfilling lives. Early diagnosis, consistent care, and supportive communities are key to managing symptoms and promoting long-term wellness.
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Suicide Prevention
Suicidality refers to thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to wanting to die or end one’s life. These experiences can arise from deep emotional pain, hopelessness, or feeling like a burden—but they don’t mean someone truly wants to die; often, it means they want the pain to stop. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, regardless of background, and are signs of distress that deserve immediate care and compassion. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, help is available right now. Reaching out—to a trusted person, counselor, or crisis service—can be life-saving. You are not alone, and healing is possible.
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Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that affects how a person feels about themselves and others, often leading to intense emotions, unstable relationships, and a shifting sense of identity. People with BPD may experience strong mood swings, fear of abandonment, impulsive behaviors, or feelings of emptiness. These reactions are often rooted in deep emotional pain and past trauma — not a lack of care or effort. With understanding, consistent support, and effective treatments like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), people with BPD can build emotional regulation skills, healthier relationships, and a greater sense of stability. Healing is possible with compassion and connection.
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Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a serious but treatable mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and experiences reality. It can involve symptoms such as hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (strongly held false beliefs), disorganized thinking, and difficulty concentrating or expressing emotions. These experiences can be frightening and isolating, but they do not define a person’s identity or potential. With the right combination of medication, therapy, community support, and understanding from loved ones, many people living with schizophrenia lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. Early intervention and compassionate care make a powerful difference in recovery and quality of life.
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