What type of disorders are classified as the most common mental disorders?

Anxiety disorders are classified as the most common mental disorders across various populations. They encompass a range of conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias, among others. These disorders often manifest through excessive fear or worries that can significantly affect an individual's daily functioning.

The prevalence of anxiety disorders is notably high, affecting millions of people worldwide, making them statistically more common than other types of mental health disorders such as serious mental illnesses, which typically involve more severe impairments and are less prevalent. In contrast, autism spectrum disorders present differently and have their own unique characteristics, but they do not match the prevalence rates of anxiety disorders. Substance use disorders, while also common, generally occur in conjunction with anxiety or mood disorders, thereby reinforcing the prominent position of anxiety disorders in statistical reports on mental health. Thus, the categorization of anxiety disorders as the most prevalent type aligns with research findings and clinical observations on mental health trends.