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Month: March 2024

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness

Posted on by TYHO Team

88% gain mental health awareness & help through therapy

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  • Updated on 5 July 2024

It is impossible to talk about overall wellness without bringing up mental health. 

In Malaysia, nearly 29% of adults suffer from some type of mental health issue. Yet, many hesitate to seek help due to stigma.  

Moreover, wellness does not only refer to a mental illness. Instead, there are several different types of wellness, including emotional, physical, social, and psychological.  

Our work, personal life, relationships, emotional health, and physical health can affect how we feel and live every day. Our wellness can also affect how we perform at school or work and how we maintain our relationships. 

The discussion around mental health awareness has never been as important as, say, physical health or work-life balance. However, all these elements combined can improve the overall quality of life. 

Learn what mental health awareness means, how it can help you, and what you can do to promote awareness in your circle.  

This Article Contains:

What Is Mental Health Awareness?

Mental health awareness is about spreading and gaining knowledge about how our mental health (eg thoughts and feelings) can affect our wellness.  

Awareness helps us see that it is okay to be honest about our feelings and that there is no shame in seeking help when we need it.  

The idea encourages everyone to: 

  • Learn more about mental health 
  • Recognise the signs that they or someone they love may be struggling 
  • Understand that counselling can be a great option for coping and healing  

Spreading awareness is also about making sure that people don’t feel alone, different, or ashamed when they face mental health issues.  

By having conversations about mental health, we can remove the fear and shame associated with it.  

When we become aware of mental health, we may become better friends, family members, professionals, leaders, and community members! 

How Can Mental Health Awareness Help?

Mental health awareness can help promote counselling in Malaysia and medical treatment.  

Having these conversations can be hard initially, but they play an essential role in changing the way our society thinks about mental illness.  

Most people seek help only when their condition is ‘severe’—that is, when it affects their personal life, relationships, or work performance.  

However, spreading awareness about mental health could ensure that we recognise the signs of illness early on and prevent them before they get worse.  

Below are four important ways mental health awareness can help.

Helps Understand Oneself

Mental health awareness can help you identify signs of your own mental well-being.  

For example, if you have been feeling sad for days without a reason, you may reflect on other signs based on your knowledge. You may think about your appetite, mood swings, social energy, your motivation to work etc.  

Without enough awareness, however, the chances of you neglecting your mental health can increase.  

Your awareness can also empower you to take control of your life. If you feel sad, you may quickly seek help from a counsellor to cope better.  

Similarly, being aware also means being more self-aware.  

If you doomscroll on social media (eg scroll endlessly and without intention), you may notice that you feel anxious or FOMO due to your current behaviour. Your awareness would then help you stop the activity and take a break.  

Starts Conversations

Mental health awareness can start hard and important conversations.  

Awareness gives people more space and the safety to talk about their problems without fear of judgment.  

Moreover, when more people start talking about their issues, those suffering alone may also feel hopeful. This, in turn, makes it easier for loved ones to reach out to each other.  

To start conversations, try to notice if your friend or any family member is struggling.  

Offer them a listening ear and show them that you care about their feelings. Your unconditional support could help promote mental wellness and express your love at the same time.  

Women wearing hijab and talking about mental health awareness.

Promotes Mental Wellness

We may all think that mental health is only related to mental illness.  

However, what about struggling to overcome a specific problem? Having issues with making friends? Moving to a new country without enough social support? Being part of an oppressed group, yet having no one to show up for you?  

Mental wellness has several different elements associated with it. For example, a person may be mentally fit yet have problems with issues such as bullying or discrimination.  

Hence, regardless of their mental wellness, everyone may benefit from seeking support. 

Online counselling could help you improve confidence, gain clarity about your life purpose, think more positively, and so on.  

With strong and consistent mental health awareness in society, one could comfortably seek help for daily life issues.  

88% gain mental health awareness & help through therapy

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Tips to Promote Mental Health Awareness

How can we, at an individual level, promote mental health awareness?  

A major part of it is speaking up about mental health openly and honestly. 

Below are some tips and ideas to spread awareness about mental health responsibly: 

1. Speak Up

How often do you speak up for yourself?  

Do you ask for rest when you need it?  

Do you prioritise self-care before work?  

It is common to take a day off when we have the flu or are sick. However, we may not ask for leave when we are emotionally drained.  

If you are having a bad mental health day, try to speak up for yourself and get the rest you deserve.  

When you are more honest about your needs, you may also inspire others to do the same! 

2. Learn More

Take some time out every week to learn more about mental health.  

Try to understand the symptoms of some of the most common disorders, like signs of burnout, maladaptive behaviour, anxiety etc.  

Learn how to take care of yourself when you experience mood swings or anxiety. Self-care tips for mental health is a great place to start.  

Keep an eye on your signs, especially when you feel irritated or angry frequently. Talk to your loved ones about your observations. Find posts to read more about what you are going through.  

The more you talk about your signs, the better you may understand them! 

3. Talk to a Counsellor

When you need more support than self-care tools, reach out to your Malaysian counsellor.  

Note: There is no rule about when to seek help. You can book a session right after you notice the signs, before you observe any exhaustion, or later. The important thing is to prioritise your mental health as early as possible.  

Your counsellor may use tools like solution-focused therapy to help you identify and solve your problem.  

If you are comfortable, talk to your friends and family about how therapy helped you and why you continue to seek help.  

Remember, showing up for yourself is one of the most important ways to promote mental health awareness! 

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Takeaway

It’s impossible to discuss overall wellness without mentioning mental health. In Malaysia, nearly 29% of adults face mental health issues, yet many hesitate to seek help due to stigma.

Although mental health awareness, such as mental peace or work-life balance, hasn’t always been prioritised, it’s important for improving life quality. Understanding mental health means recognising its impact on our wellness, encouraging honesty about our feelings, and reducing shame in seeking help.

If you need more support, try contacting Malaysian Therapists at Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO).

Mental Health Test & Screening

Posted on by TYHO Team

90% improve quality of life after mental health test & therapy

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Mental health tests can give you a good idea about your mental wellness.  

Taking online tests and assessments could help you identify if you need help from a professional counsellor in Malaysia.  

There are several different types of mental health assessments. For example, if you suspect that you may have an anxiety disorder, you could try an anxiety stress scale to gauge the intensity.  

Similarly, there are specific mental health tests to assess disorders such as ADHD, OCD, autism, depression, social anxiety, and so on. 

Alternatively, you can take general tests to evaluate your overall mental fitness (eg are you mentally resilient? Can you cope with problems without any issues?). 

However, please note that these tests are not diagnostic. Free online mental health assessments are a way to determine whether you need further help.  

Only a registered and qualified psychologist or psychiatrist (ie a medical doctor) can give you an official diagnosis and therapeutic plan.  

Read about what a mental health test is, what the results mean, and how to get an official diagnosis. 

This Article Contains:

What Is a Mental Health Screening?

A mental health screening is used to assess your mental wellbeing. A diagnostic screening could test your emotional state, mood swings, thinking patterns, relationships, personality, etc.  

Your psychologist may ask open-ended questions through structured conversations to conduct the assessment. However, the structure of dialogue depends on the particular test you are taking.  

Mental health assessments are used to identify symptoms of disorders such as: 

You may be answering questions about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Most tests are accessible and available online or in person.  

If you have any doubts during the assessments, your psychologist will help you clarify them.  

After the screening, the expert may discuss your assessment results and brief you on what that could mean.  

The psychologist may also recommend therapeutic approaches and a treatment plan based on the results. 

Can Mental Health Test Diagnose Me?

The short answer is no.  

Taking a free mental health test is not equivalent to a formal diagnosis, and your test results may not help you receive accommodations or additional support.  

However, regularly taking free assessments could help you become more self-aware and keep your mental wellness on track.  

Sometimes, it can be easy to neglect our wellbeing to prioritise other aspects of life, such as work or family commitments.  

Hence, mental health tests could provide you with a temporary assessment of how you are coping in life and whether you need professional support.  

However, a mental health test cannot replace a psychologist’s expertise, judgement, and evaluation.  

For example, during a formal assessment, your psychologist may take into account several factors, such as the following: 

  • Your Childhood 
  • Family history 
  • Genetics 
  • School life and academic performance 
  • Work-place stress or performance 
  • Personality type 
  • Friendships and interpersonal relationships 

Psychologists are also trained to reduce the risk of false positives and false negatives. Your psychologist can provide an accurate diagnosis with all the information you provide.  

Client getting a mental health test

Mental Health Screening Results

Mental health test results could capture your emotions and thoughts at a specific time.  

Some tests may offer you the result and an explanation, while others may only provide the result without any additional information.  

In general, if you receive a result such as a ‘Moderate’ or ‘Extremely severe’ level of a particular disorder, you may find it useful to seek help.  

Remember that mental health is dynamic, and sometimes, retaking the tests may give different results.  

Hence, try to rely more on your gut feelings after taking the test. Regardless of the outcome, if you feel like you may benefit from some guidance, do not hesitate to book an online counselling session.  

90% improve quality of life after mental health test & therapy

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Causes of Mental Health Issues

Several factors may cause mental health issues.  

Some of the most common causes include: 

  • Genetics 
  • Cultural upbringing 
  • Childhood trauma 
  • Environmental stressors  
  • Societal pressure 
  • Biological factors 
  • Lifestyle choices 

Other than the above, work stress, unhealthy coping tools, misguidance, and family expectations may also cause emotional distress. 

There is no one single cause for mental illness. Moreover, different people may develop the same condition due to several causes.  

Hence, the important thing to do if you suspect that you may have a disorder is to seek help as early as possible.  

Learning coping tools as a preventive method can help overcome future problems and bring more control to your life. 

How Do I Get a Diagnosis?

You can receive a diagnosis by booking a session with a registered psychologist in Malaysia.  

Psychologists may use diagnostic mental health tests to assess your mental health. At Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO), our psychologists may conduct diagnostic tests and regularly provide you with clinical impressions.  

Note: At TYHO, we use the term ‘Therapists’ to refer to all kinds of mental health professionals.  

You can visit each Therapist’s profile to read about their background, expertise, skills, and qualifications.  

Click the ‘Book a Session’ button to proceed with your booking. Try to have an open discussion with your Therapist about your issues.  

Your Therapist can help you provide a diagnosis if you suspect you may have any mental health disorder! 

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Takeaway

Mental health tests can be a helpful first step in understanding your mental wellness. Whether you’re curious about your overall mental fitness or specific conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or OCD, online assessments can provide valuable insights.

However, it’s important to remember that these tests are not a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Only a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist can offer a comprehensive evaluation and create a therapeutic plan tailored to your needs.

If your test results suggest that you might need further assistance, or if you simply feel that you could benefit from talking to someone, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.

Tips for Building a Healthy Relationship

Posted on by TYHO Team

75% of couples in couples therapy build a healthy relationship

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  • Updated on 18 July 2024

Wanting to maintain a healthy relationship is a great sign. Your need means that you value your relationship and are willing to put in the effort! 

A healthy relationship is about ensuring both people feel happy, valued, and connected.  

In this article, we share some simple pointers you can focus on and 5 important tips for maintaining a healthy relationship.  

This Article Contains:

How to Build a Healthy Relationship?

Firstly, you can ask deep questions to get to know your partner. Try to understand if they want the same things as you.  

Gaining an understanding of your partner’s needs can help you develop realistic couple goals.  

The next step is to focus on the below pointers based on your needs: 

  • Trust usually takes time to build. If your bond lacks trust, show your partner that you are reliable and are willing to care about them as much as possible. 
  • It is also important to share your thoughts and feelings honestly. Remember that we cannot be honest all the time. The goal here is to make sure you both get a chance to share your feelings without being judged.  
  • Sometimes, you might not agree on everything. That is okay. Try to find a middle ground with your partner so both of you feel okay with the outcome.  
  • Focusing on your hobbies is just as important as spending quality time with your partner. Hence, support your partner in what they love doing, even if it is quite different from your interests! 

5 Tips for a Healthy Relationship

All types of bonds have their ups and downs. Hence, regardless of anything, your relationships may require work, commitment, and the willingness to change with your partner.  

Whether you are in your first relationship or have been together long-term, you can follow some simple steps to build a healthy relationship.  

1. Communicate Openly

Open communication is key to building a healthy relationship.  

Communicating could mean sharing your thoughts and feelings honestly and making the other person feel heard.  

Based on your partner’s love language, you can show love by affirming their thoughts or spending time together to truly understand their thoughts.  

Below are some tips for communicating openly: 

  • Be clear and direct when you are talking about your feelings. For example, if you are upset, instead of giving them the ‘silent treatment’ or avoiding conversation, let them know that you are sad and need some space to collect your thoughts.  
  • Listen actively. During a conversation, pause and reflect on what your partner is saying.  
  • Try to avoid having conversations when either of you is angry or tired. Give yourself some space to rest, and then talk about your feelings.  
  • Respect each other’s opinions. You might not always agree with your partner, but take time to understand their point of view.  

75% of couples in couples therapy build a healthy relationship

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2. Listen Actively

Active listening can help build a strong relationship.  

Listening actively means paying attention to someone’s words. Make sure you look at your partner when they are speaking.  

However, there are many ways to listen actively—not everyone is comfortable with eye contact or direct body language.  

Active listening is about making the other person feel valued and understood – and that could mean different things in different types of relationships. 

Hence, the previous point, communicating openly, can also help. 

Let your partner know that you are listening. For example, if you tend to look elsewhere while focusing on a conversation, reassure your partner now and then that you are there and listening to them.  

When your partner shares something with you, show you understand. You can do this by repeating back a bit of what they said, like, “So, you’re upset because I forgot to ask your opinion?”  

Asking questions is also important. But make sure your questions help you understand them better, not make them feel like you are questioning or checking their answer. A good question could be, “Why do you feel that way?” 

Couple drinking coffee and talking to each other to build a healthy relationship.

3. Create Healthy Boundaries

Creating healthy boundaries can help build healthy relationships. 

Boundaries focus on personal space, respect, and mutual understanding. It is about what you can do to protect your space and not about what you want the other person to do! 

To set clear boundaries, express your needs to your partner. Let them know what is important to you and how you would like to receive it.  

For example, if you prefer private time every day, let your partner know that you would like to take time out every night for yourself.  

Remember, boundaries should be flexible. What you or your partner want may change depending on situations, needs, and your dynamics. 

Hence, be open to revisiting your boundaries occasionally to ensure that both of your needs are being met.  

4. Spend Quality Time

Spending time together can help maintain the relationship even when life gets busy. 

Try to actively make some time to meet your partner if you live away from each other.  

Make sure to spend quality time together regularly. Marriage counselling in Singapore can also help you set goals for your relationship. 

Find activities you both enjoy. For example, you can pick up a hobby, take dance classes, or walk together every night.  

Trying new things together can keep things exciting and help you learn more about each other! 

Most importantly, try to have fun together. The joy in everyday life can help create a strong and healthy relationship! 

5. Give and Take

To build a healthy relationship, you may want to ‘give’ and ‘receive’ equally. This could mean giving love, support, energy, care, attention etc.  

Firstly, talk to your partner about what they like and what values are important to them. Share your thoughts and concerns as well. 

Secondly, giving and taking in a relationship should not be a ‘game’ to be won. Remember that sometimes it is okay if either is more than the other! 

Lastly, remember to use magic words (eg thank you or sorry) when necessary, especially if your partner values affirmation and honesty.  

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Takeaway

Wanting to keep your relationship healthy is fantastic! It shows you care and are willing to put in the effort.

A healthy relationship means both people feel happy, valued, and connected. Here are five key points to help you maintain a strong relationship: communicating openly, listening actively, setting healthy boundaries, spending quality time together, and balancing give and take.

Remember, relationships take work and commitment, but with these pointers, you can build a deeper connection and enjoy a more fulfilling partnership.

Contact our expert couples counsellors if you want to improve your relationship in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

The 7 Benefits of Marriage Counselling in Singapore

Posted on by TYHO Team

Marriage counselling helps 70% lead a happy married life

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  • Updated on 8 July 2024

Getting married can be like starting a new chapter in your relationship.  

Sometimes, married couples may feel stuck and not know how to fix their problems. With marriage, a couple may have more challenges and responsibilities than when they were together or in a live-in situation.  

Marriage counselling in Singapore can help you transition to a new phase smoothly. In fact, marriage counselling can help you even if you have been married for several years. 

One of the best things about seeking counselling as a couple is finding out the real reasons behind arguments and learning how to fight effectively with each other.    

Married couples can also make plans for their future together in counselling. Working together on goals improves the relationship and ensures both people want the same things. 

In this article, we will look into the 7 most common benefits of marriage counselling in Singapore! 

This Article Contains:

Benefits of Marriage Counselling

1. Improve Communication

The most common and important benefit of marriage counselling is improving the way you interact and communicate with your partner.  

You can learn how to articulate without hurting others through therapeutic tools in solution-focused brief therapy, such as miracle questions.  

Miracle questioning is when a Singaporean Therapist asks questions deliberately to encourage positive and solution-focused thinking.  

For example, they may ask, “Imagine a miracle happened overnight, and now your relationship is perfect. What is the first thing you’d tell your partner?”  

In sessions, therapists introduce introspective exercises that can help break communication barriers.  

You may learn how to listen actively, express honestly, and communicate in a way that meets both your and your spouse’s needs.  

2. Resolve Conflicts

The second benefit of marriage counselling is to navigate and resolve conflicts effectively.  

Marriage counsellors can help you with several conflicts, such as: 

  • Lack of open communications 
  • Misunderstandings 
  • Financial disagreements 
  • Arguments 
  • Challenges with intimacy  

Your marriage counsellor will be non-judgemental and empathetic when you share your problems.  

The counsellor may steer the conversation in a productive direction and help you and your spouse think of solutions to understand each other’s issues.  

Couple trying to solve argument after gaining the benefits of marriage counselling.

3. Become Supportive

It can be hard to understand how to best support a spouse in a marriage.  

Due to several reasons, such as lack of communication or difficulty understanding a partner’s thoughts, one may not know what help to offer.  

During marriage counselling, you may identify your partner’s needs and learn how to provide support. Similarly, your spouse may also learn to offer you the same help.  

Approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help strengthen your bond and make sure both you and your spouse feel valued and understood.  

4. Improve Sex Life

A major benefit of marriage counselling is improving sex life and physical intimacy.  

You can expect to receive support for issues such as: 

  • Low sex drive 
  • Pain during sex 
  • Not feeling attracted towards your spouse 
  • Interests in ethical non-monogamy 
  • Lack of sexual satisfaction 

Sex therapy can help you feel closer to your partner and become happier together.  

You can receive sex therapy either through individual counselling in Singapore or through marriage counselling. 

Couple sleeping far away from each other due to sex-related issues. Marriage counselling can help.

5. Rebuild Trust

Many couples go to counselling when trust is broken in their relationship. Lack of trust could occur due to problems like: 

  • Cheating 
  • Not being honest 
  • Financial issues 
  • Gaslighting  

Marriage counselling is a safe environment where you can discuss your past issues and how they made you feel or the impact they had on your marriage.  

Identifying key problems and learning how to overcome them are the two important steps to rebuilding trust.  

Your counsellor will avoid taking sides and listen to all points of view before helping you.  

During counselling, you will begin to see the situation from a fresh perspective and learn skills to truly understand your spouse.  

Marriage counselling helps 70% lead a happy married life

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6. Manage Negative Emotions

Another common benefit of marriage counselling is learning how to manage negative emotions within a relationship.  

Through scientific tools, you may learn how to: 

Your counsellor will provide you with unconditional support. This support can encourage you and your spouse to understand each other’s emotional wellbeing.  

You may also develop skills to control your emotions that may otherwise lead to conflicts.  

7. Deepen Connection

One of the major benefits of marriage counselling is its overall effect on your emotional connection and bond with your spouse.  

Other than physical intimacy, it is also important to focus on emotional intimacy.  

Being emotionally intimate could include: 

  • Understanding each other 
  • Meeting and satisfying each other’s needs 
  • Showing love in a way that reaches your spouse (eg learning each other’s love languages) 
  • Setting healthy boundaries 

Sometimes, if you’ve been together for a long time, it is common to avoid your spouse’s needs or not prioritise them.  

However, spouses may have to work hard to manage their marriage for a long time. Any sort of relationship requires work, effort, and intention.  

Therapy can help you reignite that connection you may have felt with your spouse when you first met.  

In fact, marriage counselling in Singapore can also help you set new expectations and roles to adjust to your relationship dynamics.   

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Takeaway

Marriage can be a wonderful new chapter but often comes with unique challenges and responsibilities. Many couples in Singapore find marriage counselling beneficial, whether they’re newlyweds or have been together for years.

Counselling helps couples understand the root causes of their conflicts, learn effective communication strategies, and work on future goals together. Some key benefits include improving communication, resolving conflicts, becoming more supportive, improving physical intimacy, rebuilding trust, managing negative emotions, and deepening the emotional connection.

This supportive environment allows couples to grow together and navigate their marriage with understanding and commitment.

10 Common Mental Health Issues Addressed by Counsellors

Posted on by TYHO Team

Counsellors help 75% manage their mental health issues

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  • Updated on 29 July 2024

Mental health is a big part of our lives. The state of our mind can affect how we think, feel, and handle situations every day.  

Just like anyone can catch the flu, anyone can face mental health issues, too.  

In this article, let us explore the 10 common mental health issues. Some of these include anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, and trauma.  

We also share how TYHO counsellors in Singapore can help you manage these common mental health issues.  

This Article Contains:

10 Common Mental Health Issues

1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is when a person finds it hard to pay attention, stay still, or control their actions more than other people their age.  

People with ADHD have unique symptoms, and the signs can differ based on factors such as cultural upbringing, environment, etc. Some might have trouble focusing, while others might be very active or engage in impulsive behaviours.  

Counsellors in Singapore can help people with ADHD. Counsellors use approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to help improve attention and control over actions. 

Learning how to manage ADHD can make life easier at school, work, and home.   

Also See: Do I Have ADHD or Am I Just Lazy 

People express love in unique and different ways – all wrapped in beautiful layers of their upbringings, personalities, environments, and needs. Hence, do keep in mind that the love languages mentioned in this article are the five overarching themes of Chapman’s research – and not a universal determiner of love itself. 

Lastly, love is so diverse that it appears and exists in cultures in ways so complex – yet so universally understood. 

2. Eating Disorders

Eating disorders cause distress due to disorders and unhealthy relationships with food and one’s own body image.  

If you have an eating disorder, you may suffer from several types of symptoms such as: 

  • Behavioural symptoms 
  • Emotional symptoms 
  • Physical symptoms 

Moreover, risk factors such as weight bullying, body image issues, and beauty standards can further worsen the symptoms.  

You May Like Reading: Mental Health and Body Positivity 

During counselling in Singapore, you can expect to: 

  • Heal from your disordered eating 
  • Develop a positive self-image 
  • Regain healthy eating habits  

At TYHO, we offer the below counselling services to help you cope with an eating disorder: 

Counsellors might also use effective therapeutic tools to help you think differently about food and yourself.  

A person sitting at a table, struggling to decide between a plate of salad and a plate of burgers, indicates a common mental health issue.

3. Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa is a common mental health issue where someone doesn’t eat enough because they fear gaining weight.  

Anyone, regardless of their age, ethnicity, or sex, can suffer from anorexia nervosa 

People with anorexia see themselves as overweight, even if they are very thin. They eat extremely less and can become dangerously underweight.  

This condition also affects how people see themselves and their bodies.  

Getting help from professional counsellors is important for recovery. Counsellors in Singapore can offer support and personalised therapeutic plans to help someone start to eat more and feel better about themselves. 

4. Anxiety Disorder

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common mental health issue where someone worries too much about several aspects of life, such as: 

  • Health 
  • Work 
  • Relationships 

The persistent worry is so strong that it can make daily tasks harder to accomplish and affect a person’s interpersonal relationships. 

Although GAD is a long-term condition, TYHO Therapists can help you in managing and overcoming anxiety.  

Therapists may use expert tools to help you: 

Therapy can also help in improving relationships with family, work colleagues, and friends.  

Counsellors help 75% manage their mental health issues

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5. Social Anxiety

Social anxiety disorder is a common mental health issue and involves intense fear of social situations.  

Some of the common symptoms include:  

  • Fear of being judged or embarrassed in public 
  • Avoiding social gatherings 
  • Difficulty speaking in groups 
  • Fear of meeting new people 
  • Worrying for days before a social event 

Counsellors at TYHO use scientific tools such as solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) to help clients: 

  • Identify emotional and social triggers 
  • Overcome negative thinking patterns 
  • Develop solutions to overcome social anxiety 

Seeking help from a counsellor in Singapore can significantly improve confidence and reduce the impact of social anxiety on daily life. 

6. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is a common mental health issue where people may have unwanted thoughts (ie obsessions) and engage in compulsive behaviours to cope with the thoughts (ie compulsions).   

Symptoms include: 

  • Constant, intrusive thoughts 
  • Repeatedly checking things (like locks or stove) 
  • Excessive cleaning or handwashing 
  • Arranging items in a specific way 
  • Repeating actions a certain number of times 

Based on the specific type of OCD, your counsellor in Singapore may help you overcome and resist the compulsions.  

Counselling can be crucial in managing OCD and improving quality of life.

7. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a common mental health issue and can occur after and during a traumatic event.   

Symptoms include: 

  • Vivid flashbacks of the trauma 
  • Severe anxiety and constant alertness 
  • Nightmares and disturbed sleep 
  • Avoidance of anything related to the trauma 

Counsellors at TYHO use several types of trauma-informed approaches to help you process and heal from your trauma.  

Using techniques like exposure therapy, your counsellor may help you address your trauma to gradually reduce the fear in a controlled environment.  

8. Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a common mental health issue characterised by extreme mood swings. The disorder includes two major types of moods: mania and depression.   

Common symptoms include: 

  • High energy and euphoria during manic phases 
  • Impulsive or reckless behaviours 
  • Deep sadness and lack of energy during depressive phases 
  • Difficulty in concentrating and making decisions 

Counsellors in Singapore may use cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help: 

  • Change your negative thought patterns 
  • Control and manage your emotions 
  • Improve romantic relationships 
  • Improve relationships with your family members 
A person struggling to concentrate at work due to a common mental health issue.

9. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

BPD is a common mental health issue that can cause emotional dysregulation (ie unable to manage or control emotions) and affect relationships.   

Symptoms include:  

  • Fear of abandonment 
  • Intense, unstable relationships 
  • Impulsive actions 
  • Extreme emotional swings 
  • Chronic feelings of emptiness 
  • Self-harm or suicidal behaviour 

Counsellors use proven techniques such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) to improve emotional regulation.  

Importantly, through tools such as DBT and CBT, you may learn how to manage your emotions, replace negative thoughts, and improve your relationships.  

You May Like Reading: Overcoming Mental Health Illness Through Counselling  

10. Addictions

Addiction (ie substance and non-substance) is a common mental health issue that involves a compulsive need for substances or engaging in harmful behaviours despite harmful consequences.  

Common symptoms include:  

  • Craving the substance or behaviour 
  • Loss of control over usage 
  • Withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit 
  • Neglecting responsibilities and relationships 

Counsellors may use SFBT to identify triggers and develop effective solutions to overcome addiction.  

Based on the type of addiction (ie substance and non-substance), your counsellor may choose one or several tools to help you. 

Visit our Singapore counsellors page to seek help today.  

You are not alone! 

Takeaway

Mental health plays a big role in our daily lives, affecting how we think, feel, and act. Just like catching the flu, anyone can face mental health issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma.

All mental health issues have unique symptoms and challenges. Hence, a counsellor may use a personalised therapeutic plan to help with any particular issues. For example, a person with borderline personality disorder may find it helpful to engage in dialectical behavioural therapy.

TYHO counsellors in Singapore offer various therapeutic approaches to help manage these conditions, improving quality of life and making everyday tasks easier.

Psychological Disorders: Types and Examples

Posted on by TYHO Team

90% reduce signs of psychological disorders through therapy

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  • Updated on 9 July 2024

Psychological disorders are also known as mental health disorders.  

These disorders affect the way we think, feel, act, and function in the world. 

The list of psychological disorders includes many types, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common disorders experienced worldwide.  

Moreover, each disorder has its own unique set of symptoms and can make daily life difficult.  

In this article, we will look into the major psychological disorders list and give you a few examples of the issues.  

This Article Contains:

List of Psychological Disorders

1. Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorder is a persistent feeling of worry and fear that can affect daily functioning. 

If you have an anxiety disorder, you may experience symptoms consistently for a long period of time.  

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) notes that anxiety disorders are quite widespread and affect a significant number of adults globally.  

Some of the common examples of anxiety include: 

  • Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) 
  • Social anxiety disorder 
  • Separation anxiety disorder 
  • Specific phobias 
  • Panic disorder 

Common symptoms across these disorders are:  

  • Persistent and uncontrollable anxious thoughts 
  • Restlessness 
  • Difficulty concentrating 
  • Irritability 

Talk Your Heart Out (TYHO) psychologists in Singapore use psychotherapeutic approaches to treat anxiety.  

In particular, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is usually used as the primary form of treatment.  

However, your psychologist may use either one or several approaches based on the specific type of anxiety disorder. 

Visit our anxiety counselling page for more information about the type of treatment used for anxiety.  

An anxious person holding their head between their hands on a garden due to a psychological disorder.

2. Mood Disorders

Mood disorders appear in the major psychological disorders list. It may affect one’s emotional state.  

The two main types of disorders in this category are major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder.  

Major depressive disorder (MDD) involves feeling sad all the time and having a lack of interest in life. If you have MDD, you may find it hard to perform daily activities like cleaning, cooking, or eating.  

Also See: How to Be Happy Again? Rediscovering Joy and Happiness 

Bipolar disorder, on the other hand, involves dramatic changes in mood, especially from a high state (ie mania) to a low one (ie depression). 

During mania, a person may feel extremely energetic or irritable and may make impulsive decisions. During a depressive episode, the person may feel sad, upset, or have severe fatigue.  

With the right and personalised therapeutic plan, you can manage and overcome mood disorders. Psychologists in Singapore can help you heal. 

Depression counselling in Singapore can give you more insights into the treatment plans. 

3. Trauma- And Stress-Related Disorders

Trauma- and stressor-related disorders come under the major psychological disorders list.  

Below is a list of some of the common types of stress/trauma disorders: 

You May Like Reading: How Trauma Affects Physical Health 

Common symptoms across stress disorders include: 

  • Experience severe anxiety, frustration, anger, or dissociative symptoms 
  • Feeling emotionally numb 
  • Feeling isolated or hopeless 
  • Having negative and unhelpful thoughts or flashbacks 

If you have uncontrollable anger or want to control anger in a relationship, please visit our anger management page to learn more.  

90% reduce signs of psychological disorders through therapy

Find a Therapist

4. Personality Disorders

Personality disorders are one of the major categories of psychological disorders list.  

A person may have different patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that may diverge from society’s conventional way of functioning.  

The difference can, therefore, cause distress or affect the person’s daily life. Personality disorders can affect: 

  • Relationships dynamics 
  • Behavioural regulation 
  • Self-image 
  • Interaction with others 
  • Work-place performance 

You May Like Reading: Why Does My Mom Hate Me? Reasons You May Feel This Way 

Common Types of Personality Disorders Include:

  • Antisocial Personality Disorder 
  • Avoidant Personality Disorder 
  • Borderline Personality Disorder 
  • Dependent Personality Disorder 
  • Histrionic Personality Disorder 
  • Narcissistic Personality Disorder 
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder 
  • Paranoid Personality Disorder 
  • Schizoid Personality Disorder 
  • Schizotypal Personality Disorder 

5. Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are a category in the major psychological disorders list as they severely affect our daily lives.  

Lack of sleep can make us feel lethargic and affect our concentration, attention span, physical health, and so on.  

Below are some of the common sleep disorders: 

  • Insomnia: A person may find it hard to fall asleep if they have insomnia.   
  • Sleep apnea: This condition causes pauses in breathing during sleep.  
  • Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy causes an irrepressible need to sleep. It can also cause sudden muscle weakness, known as cataplexy.  
  • Restless legs syndrome (RLS): If you feel uncomfortable sensations in your legs that urge you to move them, it might be RLS. RLS can also occur during the nighttime and disturb sleep cycles.   
  • Parasomnias: Activities like sleepwalking or experiencing night terrors during sleep are known as parasomnias. 

You can visit each Singaporean Therapist’s profile to check if they can help you with sleep issues.  

A person laying on the work desk unable to fall asleep due to a psychological disorder called insomnia.

6. Eating Disorders

Eating disorders affect a person’s eating habits and perceptions about food and body image.  

Common types of eating disorders include:  

  • Anorexia Nervosa 
  • Bulimia Nervosa 
  • Binge Eating Disorder 
  • Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder 
  • Pica 
  • Rumination Disorder 

Please visit our eating disorders page if you would like to gain in-depth information about each type.  

7. Substance Use and Addictive Disorders

Substance use disorders are a key part of the list of psychological disorders.  

People may use substances like alcohol, drugs, and tobacco when they find it hard to cope with life challenges.  

Although these substances may give temporary relief, they may worsen physical and mental health in the long run.  

Below are common examples of addictive disorders: 

  • Alcohol Use Disorders 
  • Opioid Use Disorders 
  • Cannabis Use Disorders 
  • Stimulant Use Disorders 
  • Tobacco Use Disorders 

If you or someone you know suffers from any psychological disorders, please visit our Singapore psychologist page to seek help. 

Takeaway

Understanding psychological disorders is crucial because they can deeply impact how we think, feel, and function. From anxiety and mood disorders to trauma-related and personality disorders, each type has unique symptoms that can make daily life challenging.

Recognising the signs and seeking appropriate treatment, like cognitive behavioural therapy or personalised therapeutic plans, can make a significant difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and support is available.