Understanding Mental Disorders: Your Guide to DSM-5®

by American Psychiatric Association, Patrick J. Kennedy (Foreword)

Most of us know a friend, coworker, neighbor, or loved one suffering from a mental illness. This book provides valuable insight on what to expect from an illness and its treatment -- and will help readers recognize symptoms, know when to seek help, and get the right care. Based on the latest fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -- known as DSM-5(R) -- Understanding Mental Disorders identifies mental disorders by symptoms, describes treatment, and explores special needs or concerns. These disorders include depression, schizophrenia, childhood-related disorders such as ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and bipolar disorder, among others.

The common language for diagnosing mental illness used in DSM-5(R) for mental health professionals has been adapted into clear, concise descriptions of disorders for nonexperts. In addition to specific symptoms for each disorder, readers will find: - Risk factors and warning signs- Related disorders- Ways to cope- Tips to promote mental health- Personal stories- Key points about the disorders and treatment options- A special chapter dedicated to treatment essentials and ways to get help - Helpful resources that include a glossary, list of medications and support groups

Understanding Mental Disorders is designed to combat mental illness through education and early recognition and treatment. It helps those who may be struggling with mental health problems, as well as those who want to help others achieve mental health and well-being.

Understanding Mental Disorders: Your Guide to DSM-5(R) is an indispensable reference for all who are affected by mental illness.

Genres: Psychology, Research

388 pages, Paperback

First published January 9, 2015

About the author

APA is an organization of psychiatrists working together to ensure humane care and effective treatment for all persons with mental illness, including substance use disorders.

Reviews

[Melodie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book puts mental health conditions into layman’s terms which I found to be helpful. I think it’s important to point out that this book should be used as a companion to DSM-5, not in place of. I personally think someone would be best just reading DSM-5, and then googling things they didn’t understand for more information, but this book was still well written and a nice tool.

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great reference for writers... Summarizes in an easy to read fashion various psychoses and human weaknesses.

[Solange Guillen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have only read what was important to me but it did not provide any additional information.
I saw it more as a guide for practitioners.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got this out for my uni dissertation and I found it useful.

[Tracy Schillemore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Layman's terms.

[Cloay · Rating 3 out of 5]

- available in SG NLB 616.89 (Bt Merah)

[Martha Earl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good consumer level breakdown of DSM V.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A basic overview of the DSM V. It does not go in-depth on any particular disorder, nor is it overly technical. If you want to understand the DSM V, without reading the enormous jargon filled text- this is for you. If you want a book to help you understand one particular mental illness- this is not for you. It is helpful for an overall picture of understanding of mental health. I recommend especially for those who work in healthcare or healthcare adjacent.