Internalizing Disorders
characterized by negative emotions (ex. major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder)
Internalizing disorders are a group of mental health disorders characterized by excessive and persistent negative emotions and behaviors that are focused inwardly. Individuals with internalizing disorders experience symptoms that remind them of depression and anxiety. The disorders in this category are categorized by internal emotional responses that can negatively affect an individual’s thinking, behaviors, and overall well-being. Examples of internalizing disorders include depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Depression is a mood disorder where individuals experience intense feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and hopelessness. Symptoms may include fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, lack of motivation and interest in activities, and difficulty concentrating. Depression affects people of all ages, but it’s more prevalent in adolescents and young adults.
Anxiety disorders, on the other hand, are characterized by excessive, persistent fear and worry about everyday situations. It includes several diagnostic categories, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Symptoms may include an increased heart rate, trembling or shaking, sweating, and difficulty breathing.
Panic disorder is a subtype of anxiety disorder that includes sudden, unpredictable panic attacks and persistent worry about future attacks. Panic attacks may include symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event such as sexual assault, combat, or natural disasters. It’s characterized by symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, nightmares, avoidance, and hyperarousal.
Finally, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disorder that comprises intrusive thoughts and uncontrollable behaviors, such as compulsive hand washing, counting, or checking. People affected by OCD often fear germ contamination or have a fear of accidental harm coming to themselves or others.
Effective treatment for internalizing disorders often involves a combination of medication and therapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking, behaviors and develop coping strategies to help manage their symptoms. It’s also essential to engage in healthy lifestyle habits such as getting enough sleep, exercise, and eating nutritious food.
More Answers:
Understanding DSM-5 Personality Disorders: Types, Clusters, and Characteristics.Understanding Personality Disorders and Normal Personality Traits: Key Differences in Patterns of Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors
Understanding Externalizing Disorders: Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and ADHD