What is mental health?

Mental health refers to the overall state of how you think, regulate your emotions, and behave. This psychological functioning can sometimes be significantly disrupted. Mental disorders refer to patterns or changes in thinking, feeling, or behavior that cause distress or interfere with personal functioning. Mental health disorders can affect:

- Maintaining personal or family relationships

- Performance in social settings

- Work or academic performance

- Engagement in other important activities

Cultural norms and social expectations also influence mental health conditions. There are no universally measured standards of what constitutes normal behavior or disruption across different cultures. Behavior considered normal in one society might cause concern in another.

How are Mental Health Disorders Defined?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a guide published by the American Psychiatric Association that explains the signs and symptoms of hundreds of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. The DSM provides diagnostic criteria based on the nature, duration, and impact of signs and symptoms. It also describes typical courses of disorders, risk factors, and common comorbidities.

Another commonly used diagnostic guide is the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) from the World Health Organization. Health insurance companies use the diagnostic coding systems from the DSM and ICD to determine coverage scope and benefits related to mental health, and to provide reimbursement to mental health professionals.