Chapter 11
MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS

Everyone periodically experiences emotional stress, and most people develop ways to cope successfully with these episodes. Some people, however, cannot control their own thoughts, moods, fears, or emotional reactions to stressful life experiences. These people suffer from a variety of mental health disorders, each of which is distinguished by unique symptoms. This chapter discusses causes of, and holistic treatments for, the most common of these disorders, including anxiety, depression, panic disorders and phobias, schizophrenia, compulsive disorders, and insomnia.

Early diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders can help many people return to fulfilling and productive lives. People seeking guidance from a mental health professional should ask the therapist about his or her educational training, professional licenses, areas of specialty (some offer only marriage and family counseling, others work only with children), and approach to therapy before starting treatment. The costs and length of therapy programs vary, and should be discussed with the therapist before counseling begins.