How to determine whether it is a mental illness or a psychiatric illness

The diagnosis of mental illness and psychiatric disorders usually requires professional doctors to conduct comprehensive diagnosis through clinical evaluation, psychological assessment, and necessary medical examinations. There are differences between the two in terms of etiology, symptom manifestations, and treatment methods, but both belong to health problems in the field of mental health and need to be treated scientifically.

Psychological disorders usually refer to psychological dysfunction caused by psychosocial factors, environmental stress, personality traits, etc. The symptoms are often manifested as emotional distress, poor behavioral adaptation, or interpersonal relationship problems, such as sustained low mood, excessive anxiety, fear, or compulsive behavior. These symptoms are often related to specific life events or stressors, and the patient's ability to test reality is usually intact, able to realize their pain and actively seek help. Psychiatric disorders are more closely related to changes in brain biology, which may involve genetic, neurobiochemical abnormalities, or dysfunction of brain structure. The symptoms are more widespread and severe, often including sensory abnormalities such as hallucinations, cognitive content disorders such as delusions, or significant decline in cognitive function. These symptoms may seriously affect patients' understanding of reality and daily life self-care ability, and some patients may lack awareness of their own diseases. Whether it is a mental illness or a psychiatric disorder, its diagnosis is a rigorous process. Doctors will inquire about the medical history in detail, observe symptoms, use standardized assessment tools, and rule out the possibility of other physical illnesses. Finally, they will make a judgment based on standards such as the International classification of Diseases or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. When an individual or those around them experience persistent emotional, thinking, or behavioral abnormalities that affect their normal life, work, or social interactions, it should be considered a signal to seek professional help. You can first go to a regular hospital's psychiatric or psychological department for treatment, and clearly describe the specific distress, duration, and process of change to the doctor. In daily life, maintaining a regular schedule, balanced diet, and moderate physical exercise can help maintain mental health. Learning stress management skills such as mindfulness meditation, cultivating healthy interests and hobbies, and establishing a stable social support system also have a positive effect on psychological adjustment. It is important to avoid bias towards psychological or mental issues and seek timely help as the first step towards recovery. Family members and society should also provide understanding and support to jointly create an environment conducive to mental health.

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