What characterizes a mental disorder?

A mental disorder is characterized by a behavioral pattern that is associated with distress and significantly impairs an individual's functioning. This means that the individual experiences symptoms that not only cause discomfort but also interfere with their daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Mental disorders can manifest in various ways, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, or disturbances in thought processes.

Significantly, the presence of distress is a key component in defining mental disorders as it indicates the subjective experience of suffering. Distress can be emotional, such as feelings of sadness or anxiety, or it can manifest in behavioral changes, which might lead an individual to act in ways that are not typical for them.

In contrast, constant mood changes and temporary emotional responses do not necessarily indicate a mental disorder, as they may be part of normal psychological variations or reactions to specific situations. Similarly, physical symptoms without psychological origins do not fit the criteria for a mental disorder, as mental health issues involve psychological dimensions that affect behavior and thoughts. Therefore, the focus on the distress and impairment in B makes it the correct characterization of a mental disorder.