The following information is for educational and reference purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you or someone you know experiences related symptoms, please consult a qualified doctor as soon as possible.
Depression
Depression is a common mood disorder that persistently affects a person's emotions, thinking, and daily functioning. It is not simply feeling sad — it is a medical condition that requires treatment.
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Common Symptoms:
- Persistent sadness, low mood, or feeling empty
- Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities
- Significant changes in appetite or weight
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
If symptoms persist for more than two weeks and affect daily life, please seek professional help early.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Generalised Anxiety Disorder is characterised by persistent and excessive worry about various matters. Patients find it difficult to control these worries, which are often accompanied by physical symptoms.
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Common Symptoms:
- Excessive and uncontrollable worry
- Restlessness and easy fatigability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Muscle tension
- Sleep disturbance
- Irritability
Persistent anxiety can significantly affect quality of life. Early consultation can help improve the condition.
Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder is characterised by recurrent, unexpected episodes of intense fear (panic attacks), usually accompanied by severe physical symptoms. Patients often develop avoidance behaviours out of fear of recurrence.
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Common Symptoms of Panic Attacks:
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Sweating and trembling
- Shortness of breath or feeling of choking
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Fear of losing control or feeling of impending doom
Panic Disorder can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment. Please seek medical advice early.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD is characterised by recurrent, uncontrollable obsessive thoughts and repetitive compulsive behaviours performed to reduce anxiety. These significantly interfere with daily life.
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Common Manifestations:
- Recurrent intrusive thoughts (e.g. contamination fears, fear of harming others)
- Repetitive behaviours (e.g. excessive hand-washing, checking, arranging)
- Awareness that behaviours are unreasonable but inability to stop
- Spending excessive time on obsessions and compulsions
OCD is a treatable condition. Appropriate treatment can effectively improve symptoms.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder in which patients experience extreme mood swings between mania (or hypomania) and depression. Each episode can last from days to months.
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Common Manic Episode Symptoms:
- Abnormally elevated or irritable mood
- Increased energy and reduced need for sleep
- Racing thoughts and rapid speech
- Impulsive behaviour (e.g. overspending, reckless driving)
- Grandiosity or inflated self-esteem
Bipolar Disorder requires long-term treatment and management. Regular follow-up is essential for mood stability.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects thinking, perception, and behaviour. Early detection and treatment are crucial for recovery.
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Common Symptoms:
- Hallucinations (e.g. hearing voices)
- Delusions (e.g. paranoia, feeling monitored)
- Disorganised thinking and incoherent speech
- Blunted emotions and social withdrawal
- Reduced motivation and self-care ability
The earlier schizophrenia is treated, the better the prognosis. Please seek medical help promptly.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder common in children and adolescents, but can persist into adulthood. It is characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviour.
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Common Symptoms:
- Difficulty sustaining attention
- Easily distracted, forgetful in daily activities
- Excessive movement, difficulty sitting still
- Impulsive behaviour, difficulty waiting
Early professional assessment by a psychiatrist is recommended if you suspect ADHD.
Insomnia
Insomnia involves difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early, with a negative impact on daytime functioning. Chronic insomnia can seriously affect physical and mental health.
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Common Symptoms:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking frequently during the night
- Waking too early and unable to return to sleep
- Daytime fatigue and reduced concentration
- Irritability or low mood
Chronic insomnia may be linked to depression or anxiety. Consult a specialist psychiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a mental health condition that may develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Patients may relive the traumatic event and exhibit avoidance and hyperarousal symptoms.
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Common Symptoms:
- Recurrent nightmares or flashbacks related to the trauma
- Avoidance of people, things, and places associated with the trauma
- Persistent negative emotions and thoughts
- Exaggerated startle response and sleep difficulties
If traumatic experiences continue to affect your daily life, please seek professional help early.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder involves intense and persistent fear and anxiety in social situations, with worry about being noticed, judged, or criticised. It often leads to avoidance of social activities.
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Common Symptoms:
- Extreme nervousness or fear in social situations
- Fear of being the centre of attention
- Avoidance of social activities or excessive self-criticism afterwards
- Blushing, sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat
Social Anxiety Disorder can be improved with appropriate treatment. Do not hesitate to seek help.
Adjustment Disorder
Adjustment Disorder refers to emotional or behavioural responses that are disproportionate to a stressful life event, leading to significant impairment in daily functioning. Common triggers include job changes, relationship issues, bereavement, or relocation.
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Common Symptoms:
- Persistent low mood or anxiety
- Frequent crying or feelings of hopelessness
- Decline in work or academic performance
- Social withdrawal
If you are struggling to cope after a major stressor, timely professional support can help you through.
