As a BA psychology student preparing for a future career as a clinical psychologist, I’ve slowly realised that mental disorders are not just academic topics printed in a textbook. They are personal battles people face daily—sometimes silently, sometimes with fear, sometimes without the language to describe what they feel. When I attend my classes, read case studies, or observe people around me, I see how invisible emotional pain can be, especially conditions like depression.
This blog is my effort to bring clarity, compassion, and awareness to mental disorders by blending professional knowledge with personal observation. Understanding the psychology behind these conditions is the first step toward building a kinder, more informed world.
💭 What Exactly Are Mental Disorders?
Mental disorders are disturbances in a person’s thinking, emotions, and behaviour, affecting daily functioning and quality of life. They influence:
- How we process stress
- Our emotional responses
- Our relationships
- Decision-making patterns
- Motivation and attention
Common mental disorders include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. Each has its own symptoms, but many overlap, meaning early recognition and intervention can lead to better outcomes.
🌧 Depression: The Hidden Pain Behind Many Smiles
Out of all mental disorders, depression is one that deeply affects people my age. It is often mistaken for laziness, mood swings, or “overthinking,” but depression is a persistent state of emotional and physical exhaustion.
Symptoms may include:
- Constant sadness or emptiness
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Difficulty concentrating (very relatable during study time)
- Sleep issues—insomnia or oversleeping
- Fatigue even after resting
- Changes in appetite
- Feelings of hopelessness
As students, academic pressure, family expectations, and social comparison make emotional struggles heavier. Many people hide their symptoms behind a smile, making awareness and early support essential.
⚠️ Why Are Mental Disorders Still Stigmatised?
Despite growing awareness, mental disorders still carry unnecessary stigma. People hesitate to seek help because of myths such as:
- “It’s all in your mind.”
- “Just stay positive.”
- “You’re being dramatic.”
These statements dismiss real psychological pain. Instead of encouraging healing, they make people hide their symptoms, delaying treatment and worsening emotional health.
Breaking stigma requires education, empathy, and normalising conversations about mental disorders—especially in schools, colleges, and homes.
🧠 What Causes Depression & Other Mental Disorders?
Mental disorders rarely have a single cause. They arise from a combination of:
1. Biological Factors
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetic vulnerability
- Neurotransmitter changes
2. Psychological Factors
- Childhood trauma
- Long-term stress
- Negative thinking patterns
3. Social Factors
- Academic pressure
- Family conflict
- Social isolation
4. Lifestyle Factors
- Poor sleep
- Lack of physical activity
- Substance misuse
Understanding the causes shifts the narrative from blame to awareness.
🤝 How to Support Someone With a Mental Disorder
Here’s how you can genuinely help:
- Listen without interrupting
- Avoid judgemental statements
- Encourage therapy instead of giving advice
- Check in regularly
- Celebrate small progress
- Respect boundaries
Sometimes, your presence means more than perfect words.
🌱 My Journey as a Psychology Student
Studying mental disorders has made me more observant, empathetic, and determined. I hope to become a clinical psychologist who listens deeply and heals gently. Every lesson reminds me that emotional pain is real, but so is recovery. With education, awareness, and kindness, we can build a society where people feel safe to talk about their mental health without shame.
In a country where the people go to babas who hit broom on the heads of people in order to get rid of mental illnesses, awareness about mental disorders is a must. So people know themselves and don’t indulge in superstitions.
I hope this was helpful in understanding that Mental Disorders are normal and this provides you valuable insights about the same.
Want to talk about it more. Feel free to reach out and share your views to the undersigned.