What makes metal disorders, actual disorders?

Question

I mean, I understand ones like schizophrenia, or OCD. But what about depression and social anxiety? I have both, but what exactly makes them disorders, or "out of the normal" I guess I should say? Some people are more happy than others, so what? I've been suicidal before, I guess that's not normal, but what defines "normal" exactly, anyway? And I don't believe that I have a "chemical imbalance" in my brain that's causing me to feel that way. So, I'm just wondering, how do you distinguish an actual disorder from just everyday life emotions that some feel more strongly than others?

Answer 1

   It becomes a disorder when you cease to function by society's norms.  When you sleep for more than 10 hours a day regularly, or not at all.  When you stop eating, or eat everything in sight.  When you withdraw from social settings and spend the bulk of your time completely alone.  When you can't keep a job, or maintain a relationship, or see what's wrong with your behavior.  It has nothing to do with not being happy.  It has to do with the level that you are functioning.

Answer 2

it becomes a disorder when it interferes with regular functioning. it's a good question! You are right that everyone feels down at one time or another. My psych professor said it becomes a disorder when it impairs functioning. Hope this helps. Also, I hope you soon are feeling better.  

Answer 3

when u are depressed, u CANNOT be happy no matter how hard u try, this is abnormal and anything that is an abnormal personality trait is a disorder. (helpful or life threatening). everyday emotions can be a disorder... but sometimes, something that is bothering u and can cause u to get a real disorder.... such as depression.

Answer 4

First of all, all diagnoses reveal a chemical imbalance.  I think they

become disorders when they lower your quality of life.

Answer 5

i reckon its the fact that stress piles up, until you feel like everything is out of control and the future looks bleak, and then you don't feel like smiling, you just feel numb.

Hope this helped. :)