Unspecified Mental Disorder Due To Another Medical Condition
Written by BetterHelp Editorial Team
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Andrea Cziffer Paul, MD,
Julie Dodson, MA, LCSW,
Laura Angers Maddox, NCC, LPC,
and
April Justice, LICSW
Overview
An unspecified mental disorder due to another medical condition is a diagnosis made when an individual experiences significant mental or behavioral symptoms that are a direct physiological result of a medical condition. The symptoms may be wide-ranging and can include mood, cognition,1 and perception2 changes, which are not better explained by a specific mental disorder or diagnosis code.
The diagnosis is typically made when there is uncertainty regarding the exact nature of the psychiatric condition resulting from a medical illness. Some medical conditions are known to result in side effects that tend to cause symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other behavioral challenges. There is a complex interplay between physical health and mental well-being that often contributes to the presence of a mental health condition or psychiatric illness. Often, medical conditions that cause severe distress, whether psychological or physical, may result in mental health or other medical challenges for the individual.
Symptoms of this condition may vary widely, often reflecting disturbances in mood, cognition, or perception that do not meet the full criteria for a specific mental disorder. These symptoms can include noticeable changes in thought patterns, emotional regulation, or behavior. Treatment providers often use this diagnosis to leave room for discovery when the whole picture of the mental disorder may not be entirely clear.
Treatment of this condition may involve addressing the root medical condition alongside supportive therapies. Psychological interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or supportive counseling, may be beneficial and could address the condition's underlying causes. The difference between this condition and an unspecified mental disorder is that the mental health symptoms are caused directly by a medical condition and are not caused by substance use, medication, or another external factor. A medical professional may consider whether symptoms may be related to bipolar disorder, a disorder on the unspecified schizophrenia spectrum, or other psychotic disorder.
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Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of an unspecified mental disorder associated with another medical condition may vary based on the medical condition the individual is experiencing.
These symptoms may include:
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Unexpected mood swings
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Sudden changes in habits
- Depression or thoughts of hopelessness
- Fear, panic, or anxiety
Physical symptoms might also occur, such as:
- Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels
- Irregular heartbeat
- Persistent headaches
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Fatigue
The symptoms of this condition are often characteristic of a certain class of mental health disorder, such as a depressive, anxiety, or behavioral disorder or psychosis or secondary psychosis. Symptoms may arise after an unexpected diagnosis or due to side effects of medical conditions that may affect mental health, the ability to take care of oneself, or the ability to think clearly.
Causes
The causes of an unspecified mental disorder due to another medical condition or another medical disorder are often thought to be a direct result of a certain medical condition. Some severe cases or new diagnoses may cause a period of unease or result in physiological changes that negatively affect mental health.
The causes of an unspecified mental disorder due to another medical condition may range from hormonal imbalances to neurological conditions or systemic diseases that affect the body as a whole. For example, individuals with chronic illnesses like heart disease, cancer, or diabetes may experience significant mental distress stemming from their physical health challenges such as depression or secondary depression.
The causes of this condition are complex and often multifaceted, involving a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Ensuring appropriate diagnosis and treatment for the primary medical condition can be a first step toward managing the associated mental disorder.
Risk factors for developing another mental disorder due to another medical condition can vary widely, given that any medical ailment has the potential to affect mental health. Chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer often cause mental health challenges due to the long-term stress, lifestyle changes, and physical pain linked with these conditions.
Similarly, acute medical conditions like infections or injuries may cause mental health challenges to develop due to the sudden physical limitations they impose and the stress that is often related to recovery. Individuals with a prior history of mental health conditions or symptoms may be more susceptible to developing an unspecified mental disorder due to a medical condition.
Treatments
Often, the primary goal of treatment for an unspecified mental disorder due to another medical condition is to effectively manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for the individual. This process often involves a two-pronged approach: addressing the underlying medical condition and managing the associated psychological symptoms and mental difficulties.
Treatment plans are often highly personalized, considering the individual's unique circumstances and preferences. Providers often emphasize providing compassionate, holistic care that encompasses physical and mental health, focusing on fostering resilience and empowering the individual to take an active role in their recovery. Common treatments used to address these unspecified mental disorders often include cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, skills development, and medication.
Therapy
Therapy can be valuable in managing unspecified mental disorders due to another medical condition. It provides a supportive environment where individuals can openly discuss their feelings, fears, and the impact of a general medical condition on their mental health.
A common therapeutic approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This method helps individuals identify and manage challenging thought patterns that lead to distressing feelings and behaviors. By altering these thought patterns, individuals may better cope with their condition and improve their mental well-being. This therapeutic strategy may also empower individuals with knowledge about their condition, enabling them to understand its impact on their mental health and make them active participants in their recovery journey.
Clients may also benefit from interpersonal therapy (IPT),3 which focuses on improving relationships and social interactions. This form of treatment may be specifically beneficial for those who are isolated or misunderstood due to their medical condition.
Medication
Medication can play a crucial role in managing an unspecified mental disorder due to another medical condition, when prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is often used in conjunction with other forms of therapy to control symptoms and improve quality of life effectively.
The type of medication used often significantly depends on the underlying medical condition(s) and the specific mental health symptoms that are experienced.
Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, anti-anxiety drugs, and stimulants are some examples of medications that may be prescribed for different mental health symptoms and diagnoses such as.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended for any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content is providing generalized information, not specific for one individual. You should not take any action without consulting with a qualified medical professional.
Self-care
Self-care can play a pivotal role in managing an unspecified mental disorder due to another medical condition. It can be a powerful tool that may help individuals regain a sense of control over their well-being. Engaging in self-care, whether psychological, physical, or social, has the potential to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall mental health. Some examples of self-care practices include:
- Healthy eating
- Walking
- Resistance training
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Hobbies
- Social experiences with friends and family
Resources
Several resources are available for those living with unspecified mental disorder due to another medical condition. Government resources like the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) offer a wealth of information on various mental health conditions, treatments, and strategies for managing symptoms. Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and Mental Health America (MHA) also offer resources, including educational materials, advocacy, and community programs.
Online and in-person support groups may also provide a safe space to share experiences and learn from others experiencing similar challenges. These groups may be found by using directories found via the above resources or through local treatment providers and community centers.
For help with substance use, contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Research
In a recent study, CBT was found to be particularly effective in addressing unspecified mental disorders due to another medical condition and co-occurring developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
This research underscores the efficacy of CBT in mitigating symptoms and improving the management of various disorders. The study observed significant improvement in participants' functional and emotional well-being following a structured CBT intervention. The findings provide robust empirical support for CBT as a highly effective therapeutic modality, demonstrating its potential to enhance the quality of life for individuals who experience mental health condition challenges alongside other health conditions.
In another study, researchers found more compelling evidence for the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating co-occurring mental disorders in an in-depth literature review. The researchers conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis, scrutinizing 269 studies to assess the efficacy of CBT. The results revealed significant improvements across a diverse range of disorders when treated in conjunction with CBT. This evidence underscores the potential of CBT as a versatile, adaptable mental health treatment.
Recent studies have also shed light on the mechanisms within the body that may contribute to the development of co-occurring mental health disorders and medical conditions. In one of these studies, researchers aimed to explore the relationship between psychological and physical health conditions and how these co-morbidities develop.
In the study, they found that biological processes in the immune and gastrointestinal systems underlie a link between depression and irritable bowel syndrome. This study aims to inform future research on the specific links between physical and mental health outcomes and proposes a new method for studying the relationship between co-occurring physical and mental health dysfunction.
Statistics
Below are several statistics on challenges potentially related to unspecified mental disorders due to another medical condition:
- An estimated 34% to 45% of individuals living with chronic pain also experience symptoms of depression.
- One in five adults live with a mental illness.
- Of the population of individuals who experience severe mental health challenges, nearly 38% also have long-term physical conditions.
- 75% of individuals who engage in therapy experience mental health benefits.
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Associated terms
Updated on August 6, 2024.
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