In our recent fact-checking productions, widespread rumors highlight several factors as sources of mental disorders. In this section dedicated to a thorough analysis of this pathology, some specialists provide concrete elements to better understand the illness.
The Concept of Mental Illness:
Mental illnesses are disruptions in health caused by mental pathologies. These mental disorders result from a complex interaction between genetic, biological, personality, and environmental factors. Biologically, they are classified as “physical suffering” and as “dysfunctions of the organism” in other areas such as physical, social, psychological, and psychism. These mental illnesses are characterized by alterations in thought, mood, and behavior, associated with a state of distress.
There are several types of mental illnesses, but the most common are:
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety Disorders
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Mood Disorders, Depression
• Psychotic Disorders
Causes of Mental Disorders:
Indeed, mental illnesses have biological, psychological, and social origins. Mental disorders are linked to imbalances in brain chemistry and thought processes, which can be triggered by life events and difficulties. Genetically, one does not inherit a mental illness but may have a tendency to develop one.
According to Nathalie Agnès Koutou, a specialized nurse and chief at the Bangui Psychiatry Center, “Research has confirmed that mental illnesses are caused by an interaction between biogenetic factors that lead to disruptions in the brain and subsequently affect the nervous system.” She further added, with some amendments and suggestions for improving the center, which is the only one in the Central African Republic (CAR): “There is a severe lack of qualified personnel and difficulties in patient care.”
Preventive Measures:
To prevent these mental disorders, it is necessary to:
• Maintain good mental hygiene
• Rest adequately
• Plan time effectively (for activities and rest)
• Avoid psychoactive substances (drugs, tobacco, alcohol…)
It is important to note that these mental disorders affect a person’s mental state, where the brain is impacted by physical illnesses affecting the body. Given the multiple crises that the Central African Republic has experienced, the rate of mental disorders is high according to specialists at the psychiatric center. Treatment for mental disorders varies depending on the specific case of the patients; however, with the support of the community, patients can recover very quickly, reported the specialist.
By Marie-Paule Vopiade / Romaric Gbomandji / AFC
This article is produced as part of the AFC-Internews partnership funded by USAID. However, the content does not reflect the responsibility of the partner.
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