Determining the difference between relational issues as they relate to disorders can be difficult. These determinations should be left to a professional, but for your personal information and education, I will list some ways to find the probable root of these issues.
Relational Issues
behavioral in nature - Conduct Disorders
substance-induced - Conduct Disorders
severely dysfunctional (psychosis, bizarre behavior, unaware of social norms) - Psychosis Disorders or Personality Disorders
limited abilities - Cognitive Disorders
characteristics that the person has had for the majority of their life - Personality Disorders
mood-swings or emotionally-charged symptoms - Mood Disorders or Depressive Disorders
anxiety/fear is the cause - Anxiety Disorders
physical in nature - Physical Disorders
These are quick rules, but they are not set-in-stone guides.
There will be times when someone has a substance use issue, but are suffering from a severe mood disorder or they are experiencing sadness and mood swings, but they all stem from a cognitive disability that has yet to be diagnosed. Use the main symptoms with a client/patient to lead you in the right direction, but always take into account the person's substance/alcohol use, physical wellness, triggers, personal stressors, mental/cognitive ability, and any other factor that may change the way you would originally look at a symptom.
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