Mental health conditions
A mental health condition is a type of disease that can affect your thoughts, mood and behaviour. While many people may experience times of ‘low’ mood or heightened anxiety, a mental health condition requires diagnosis and treatment by a health professional.
Mental health conditions can have a large impact on a person’s quality of life, self-esteem and relationships. Learn more about mental health conditions, their symptoms and treatment using the links below.
If you’re worried about your mental health, use the healthdirect Symptom Checker to find out if you need to see a doctor. The Service Finder can help you find mental health professionals in your area.
Anxiety conditions
Anxiety can help us remain alert and be ready for challenges, but for 1 in 8 Australians, anxiety is a disorder that can impact everyday life.
Depression - an overview
Depression is a common condition, affecting how you feel, think and act. It’s often treatable and likely to improve with a doctor’s support.
Eating disorders and body image
An estimated 1 million Australians experience a type of eating or body image disorder. But treatment is available to help them lead healthier lives.
Mental illness stigma
People with mental health problems may face stigma, which can lead to discrimination and make mental illness worse. Find out how to reduce stigma.
Mood disorders
Depression and bipolar disorder can make it hard to function in relationships or at work, but help is available. Learn more about mood disorders here.
Paranoia
Many people feel paranoid at times. Paranoia is when a person believes others are trying to harm them. Read about causes and treatment.
Personality disorders
Learn more about the diagnoses and treatments for personality disorders, such as borderline personality and narcissistic personality.
Psychosis
Psychosis may be caused or triggered by certain mental illnesses and/or drug use in vulnerable people. Find out more about causes and treatments
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a mental illness that involves an altered experience of reality. Learn more about causes, symptoms and treatments.
Self-harm
Self-harm can involve cutting the skin, alcohol misuse or an eating disorder, and is often a way of coping with low self-esteem or trauma.
Supporting someone with a mental illness
Caring for someone with a mental illness can be hard. Learn more about looking after yourself and accessing support while supporting another person.
