Theories Biological Psychology Organic Mental Disorder Causes and Treatment By Ann Logsdon Ann Logsdon Ann Logsdon is a school psychologist specializing in helping parents and teachers support students with a range of educational and developmental disabilities. Learn about our editorial process Updated on October 12, 2023 Medically reviewed Verywell Mind articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and mental healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Steven Gans, MD Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Print Carsten Koall / Getty Images Trending Videos Close this video player An organic mental disorder refers to a decrease in mental functioning that is not the result of a psychiatric condition. Sometimes this term is used interchangeably with organic brain syndrome (OBS) or chronic organic brain syndrome, but is now generally referred to as a neurocognitive disorder. Here we share some of the potential causes of an organic mental disorder, along with a few of the most common symptoms. We also talk about the various treatment options when this type of condition exists. At a Glance An organic mental disorder can be caused by a brain injury, disease, exposure to toxins, and more. Trouble concentrating and bouts of confusion are common symptoms. While complications can sometimes arise, organic mental disorders are generally treated with medication and therapy. What Causes an Organic Mental Disorder? Organic mental disorders can have numerous possible causes. Among them are damage or injury to the brain from: Cancer Chemical or hormonal imbalances Degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's, Parkinson's, and Cruetuzfeldt-Jakob disease Exposure to toxins like lead and pesticides Infection Lack of oxygen (anoxic injury) Metabolic syndrome Physical trauma, such as a concussion or other head injury Vitamin deficiencies Heavy alcohol use can also contribute to the development of an organic mental disorder. In cases such as these, this type of disorder is secondary to alcohol dependence. How Alcohol Damages the Brain Symptoms of an Organic Mental Disorder Someone with an organic mental disorder may have difficulty concentrating for a long period of time or get confused when performing tasks that are routine. They might also have trouble managing relationships and collaborating or communicating with colleagues, friends, or family. Other symptoms of an organic mental disorder or neurocognitive disorder include: AgitationDeliriumDementia The exact symptoms a person may experience can vary depending on the cause of the disorder. If any of these symptoms are present, seeking medical attention is important to finding their cause and deciding the best treatment. How an Organic Mental Disorder Is Diagnosed A blood test, spinal tap, or electroencephalogram (EEG) may be administered to diagnose organic brain syndrome or an organic mental disorder. Imaging of the brain, like with a CT scan or MRI, can also be useful, depending on the underlying cause. While "organic disorders" was removed from the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) as a diagnostic category, many mental health professionals still use this terminology to describe these conditions. Potential Organic Mental Disorder Complications Some organic mental disorders are only temporary, but others get worse with time. The chance of recovery or the outlook of a person's condition with this type of disorder depends on a number of factors, most notably the cause of impaired brain function. Organic mental disorders that don't respond to treatment often result in an inability to function independently or to interact with others. This can lead to the need for assistance with activities of daily living. Treatments for an Organic Mental Disorder Although the diagnosis of an organic mental disorder (or neurocognitive disorder, as it is now referred to) can be frightening, there are resources available to help. Plus, research indicates that the effectiveness of organic mental disorder treatments is improving. Specific treatments that are best for a person with an organic mental disorder vary based on the underlying cause of the disorder. Medication may be prescribed to manage aggressive behaviors. Rehabilitation therapy can also help patients recover function in the parts of the brain affected. 11 Sources Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Diamond BJ, Dettle K. Organic brain syndrome. Encyclop Clin Neuropsychol. 2018:2523-2526. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-57111-9_569 National Library of Medicine. Organic mental disorder. Mishra KK, Sawant N, Garg S. Management of psychiatric disorders in patients with endocrine disorders. Indian J Psychiatry. 2022;64(Suppl 2):S402-S413. doi:10.4103/indianjpsychiatry.indianjpsychiatry_30_22 Rauh VA, Margolis A. Research review: Environmental exposures, neurodevelopment and child mental health - new paradigms for the study of brain and behavioral effects. 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Why we still use "organic causes": Results from a survey of psychiatrists and residents. J Neuropsychiatry. 2018:31(1):57-64. doi:10.1176/appi.neuropsych.18050099 Zhang D, Men K, Ma Y, Shi M, Lei J, Zhang H. Treatment research on mental diseases of brain organic mental disorders based on big data. J Phys: Conf Ser. 2021;1881:042037. doi:10.1088/1742-6596/1881/4/042037 By Ann Logsdon Ann Logsdon is a school psychologist specializing in helping parents and teachers support students with a range of educational and developmental disabilities. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Helpful Report an Error Other Submit