Mental illnesses and disorders

Examines attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, including symptoms, causes, treatment, and more.

An introduction to sleep disorders, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Looks at post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including its history, symptoms, and treatment.

Have you ever worried that you've forgotten something important, even though you knew everything was really okay? Some people can't stop themselves from checking, or counting, or washing their hands. These are symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD can leave people feeling helpless and out of control.

Looks at post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including its history, symptoms, and treatment.

Ongoing problems with actions or emotions are called disruptive behavior disorders. It is estimated that about 3.5 percent fo Americans under the age of 18 have disruptive behavior disorder. These disorders can be very difficult to live with, and they can also be very challenging for friends and family members. With help, however, a person with a behavior disorder can learn to lead a happier life.

Everybody feels anxious sometimes; its just part of being human. But for some people, those nervous feelings never go away. When anxiety gets so bad that it stops people from doing the things they want to do, it could be an anxiety disorder. Fortunately, there are lots of things people can do to feel better.

Drugs and alcohol seem to be everywhere in our society. Some people feel that they need to drink or take drugs to have fun or just to feel normal. An addiction to drugs or alcohol can become a serious problem not only for individuals, but also for the people who love them. Fortunately, there are ways to treat the disorder and get better.

Feeling sad sometimes is a normal part of being human. But for some people, the sad feelings overtake everything else, leaving them hopeless and empty. The things that used to make them feel happy don't make them feel that way anymore. Having depression is a very common and very serious mental disorder. However, there are ways to fight depression, get treatment, and feel better.

We all have down days as well as happier days. For people with a bipolar disorder, feelings of sadness and happiness can be more extreme. There is an alternation between feeling very up and very down. It can feel like their moods are in control of them. Fortunately, there are ways to treat this disorder and feel more balanced.