Neurotic Disorders: What Mental Illnesses Are Included? - Psychiatry

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Neurotic disorders, often referred to as anxiety disorders or functional disorders, encompass a range of mental health conditions characterized by excessive anxiety, emotional distress, and maladaptive behaviors. These disorders can significantly impact an individual's daily functioning and quality of life. Commonly included in the category of neurotic disorders are:
1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): This condition involves persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, such as health, finances, and social interactions, leading to significant distress and impairment.

2. Panic Disorder: Characterized by recurrent panic attacks, individuals experience sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort, often accompanied by physical symptoms like heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): This disorder involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform in response to their obsessions.

4. Social Anxiety Disorder: Individuals with this disorder experience intense fear or anxiety in social situations, leading to avoidance behaviors and significant distress.

5. Specific Phobias: These involve excessive fear of specific objects or situations, resulting in avoidance behavior that can interfere with daily life.

6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Although often classified separately, PTSD can be considered a neurotic disorder as it involves anxiety and distress following exposure to a traumatic event.

7. Adjustment Disorders: These occur when an individual experiences significant emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to a specific stressor, such as a major life change or loss.

Regarding the conditions you mentioned, it is important to clarify their classifications:
- Depression (including Major Depressive Disorder) is often categorized separately from neurotic disorders, though it can co-occur with anxiety disorders.

- Bipolar Disorder (previously known as manic-depressive illness) is also classified separately due to its distinct manic and depressive episodes.

- Dementia (including Alzheimer's disease) and Parkinson's disease are neurodegenerative disorders and are not classified as neurotic disorders.

- Headaches can be classified under various categories, including tension-type headaches, which may have a psychological component, but they are not classified as neurotic disorders.

- Neurasthenia (or "nervous exhaustion") is sometimes considered a neurotic disorder, particularly in cultures where it is recognized as a distinct condition.

As for your friend's situation, the involuntary shaking of the hands and feet could be indicative of various conditions, including anxiety disorders, neurological disorders, or even side effects from medications. It is advisable for your friend to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a psychiatrist or neurologist, to assess the symptoms comprehensively. A thorough evaluation will help determine the underlying cause of the symptoms and guide appropriate treatment options.

In summary, neurotic disorders encompass a range of anxiety-related conditions, while other mental health issues, such as mood disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, fall into different classifications. If your friend is experiencing distressing symptoms, seeking professional help is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.