• Depression is a mental health condition marked by persistent low mood, loss of interest in daily activities, and a range of emotional, cognitive, physical, and behavioral symptoms. It exists on a continuum, making it difficult to distinguish between normal mood changes and clinically significant depression. People with major depression often experience unreactive or fluctuating moods, along with symptoms such as fatigue, sleep and appetite changes, irritability, and social withdrawal. Cognitive effects include poor concentration, negative thinking, low self-esteem, and in severe cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide. 

​

• General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) involves excessive and persistent worry about various aspects of daily life for at least six months. Individuals often find it difficult to control their anxiety, which is accompanied by symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, irritability, and sleep problems. The anxiety is not limited to specific triggers like those seen in other anxiety disorders. Over time, people may feel demoralized or ashamed of their constant worry, and depression commonly occurs alongside GAD.

​

• Panic disorder is characterized by sudden, recurrent panic attacks that can occur spontaneously or in response to specific triggers. These attacks involve intense fear and physical symptoms such as a racing heart, dizziness, or shortness of breath. People often begin avoiding certain situations to prevent panic attacks, which can lead to agoraphobia. The severity and frequency of attacks vary widely among individuals.

​

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves recurring obsessions (intrusive, unwanted thoughts or urges) and compulsions (repetitive actions or mental rituals) that cause significant distress. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, harm, or disorder, while common compulsions include checking, cleaning, counting, or repeating phrases. These behaviors are performed to reduce anxiety but provide only temporary relief. Unlike impulsive acts, compulsions are not pleasurable and can severely interfere with daily life.

​

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) develops after exposure to traumatic events such as violence, disaster, or military combat. Individuals re-experience the trauma through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories, often accompanied by strong emotional and physical reactions. Other symptoms include hypervigilance, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and emotional numbness. Avoidance of reminders and detachment from others can further disrupt daily functioning and relationships.

​

• Social anxiety disorder, or social phobia, involves an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations. This fear leads to avoidance of activities like speaking, eating, or performing in front of others, often impacting work or school performance. Physical symptoms include blushing, sweating, trembling, and nausea, and panic attacks can occur. Many individuals develop depression or misuse substances as a way to cope with their anxiety.

​

• Specific phobias are intense, irrational fears of particular objects or situations, such as animals, heights, or injections. The fear occurs immediately upon exposure and leads to avoidance or extreme discomfort. Individuals recognize that their fear is excessive but still struggle to control it. These phobias can significantly interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

(All info above is sourced from the United States National Library of Medicine)