What does the term 'mental illness' encompass?

The term 'mental illness' encompasses a broad spectrum of conditions that affect an individual's mood, thinking, and perception. This includes various disorders such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, among others. These conditions can significantly impair daily functioning, emotional well-being, and social interactions.

Mental illness is not limited to severe disorders alone; it includes a wide range of issues, from mild to severe, that can affect how individuals think, feel, and behave. Understanding this broader perspective helps in recognizing that mental health challenges can manifest in various ways and can affect anyone, regardless of their circumstances.

In contrast, severe disorders represent only a portion of the mental health landscape. Physical disabilities are not classified under mental illness, as they pertain to physiological issues rather than psychological ones. Similarly, social withdrawal can be a symptom or consequence of mental illness but is not itself a classification of mental health conditions. Therefore, the correct understanding of 'mental illness' focuses on its impact on mood, thinking, and perception.