Mental Health Basics

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## TL;DR

Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Common conditions: anxiety disorders (most common, 19% of adults), depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, schizophrenia (~1%). Treatment: psychotherapy (CBT, DBT), medication, lifestyle changes. Early intervention improves outcomes. Mental health is health — no stigma.

## Core Explanation

Anxiety: excessive worry, physical symptoms (racing heart, sweating). Depression: persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue — leading cause of disability worldwide (WHO). CBT: identifies and changes negative thought patterns. SSRIs: most prescribed antidepressants (increase serotonin). Therapy works: ~75% benefit from psychotherapy. Lifestyle: exercise, sleep, social connection, mindfulness protect mental health. Crisis: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (US).

## Further Reading

- [Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR)](https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm)

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