Mental abuse is a form of violence that affects the mind, often leaving the abused feeling worthless and lacking empowerment. HealthGuide.org states that mental abuse is also known as emotional abuse.

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme mood and behavior changes. Many people with bipolar disorder cycle through extreme highs, called mania, and lows, called depression, and sometimes manic and depressive symptoms occur simultaneously.

“Down in the dumps” doesn’t touch the level of misery some experience when they’re depressed. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the NIMH, major depression is the leading cause of disability in the United States in people ages 15 to 44.

Autism spectrum disorders -- ASDs -- are a group of developmental disorders that begin in childhood. Symptoms range from mild to severe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ASD affects 1 out of every 88 children in the United States.

Depression in a friend or family member can be a tricky situation to contend with, since it often leads to social withdrawal. Your depressed loved one will likely avoid activities she previously enjoyed. She'll lack the energy to do much of anything. She might not be sleeping well.

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is an anxiety disorder that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event. Signs of PTSD include having unwanted, vivid recollections of the event and difficulty remaining calm. You may be irritable, have trouble sleeping, and constantly be watching or listening for danger.

Lexapro is the trade name for the medication escitalopram. Lexapro is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Lexapro works by increasing the overall availability of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Lexapro was approved by the U.S.

The prescription drug escitalopram oxalate, available as the brand Lexapro, is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.

Losing a parent, no matter your age, can be heartbreaking, traumatizing and overwhelming. Everyone deals with the loss of a loved one differently and experiences different emotions. At one moment a person who has lost a parent might be angry and irritable, and the next moment be sobbing and sad.

The National Institute of Mental Health reports that 2.4 million adults in America suffer from schizophrenia, a group of severe brain disorders in which people abnormally interpret reality.

Delusions are misguided beliefs that have no basis in reality, and people with schizophrenia often suffer from delusions as a symptom of their disease. Their disorganized thinking and impaired ability to interpret new information often lead them to false perceptions.

Magnesium is an important mineral that is involved in many bodily functions. One of the main functions of magnesium is to regulate nerves and muscles. Magnesium is also purported to alleviate some symptoms of bipolar disorder. Dark leafy green vegetables and whole grains are good sources of magnesium.