Chapter 62: Mental Health Disorders

Somatic symptom and related disorders are examined as conditions where psychological distress manifests through physical symptoms without identifiable organic pathology, including conversion disorder and the concept of secondary gain. Dissociative disorders, characterized by disruption of memory, identity, or consciousness typically following trauma, require specialized therapeutic approaches focused on safety and gradual integration. Mood disorders receive substantial coverage, including depressive episodes with attention to suicide risk assessment, neurovegetative changes, and cognitive alterations, alongside bipolar disorder management during both manic and depressive phases with emphasis on safety and nutritional support. Schizophrenia is presented through the framework of positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, and negative symptoms including social withdrawal and flat affect, with reality orientation and environmental safety as core nursing priorities. The chapter categorizes personality disorders into three clusters based on characteristic patterns: cluster A emphasizing odd or eccentric traits, cluster B marked by dramatic or impulsive behaviors, and cluster C characterized by anxious or dependent presentations. Neurocognitive disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease, are addressed with stage-specific interventions, communication strategies for language disorders, and safety measures for wandering behavior. Electroconvulsive therapy is discussed with procedural knowledge and comprehensive pre- and post-treatment nursing care. Throughout the chapter, therapeutic communication principles, informed consent, client rights, and legal considerations regarding voluntary and involuntary admissions provide the ethical framework for all interventions.