What defines a major mental disorder that is often accompanied by perceptual distortion of reality?

The defining characteristic of a major mental disorder that involves a perceptual distortion of reality is associated with psychotic disorders. These disorders are marked by significant impairments in the individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, leading to a disconnection from reality. Symptoms may include delusions (false beliefs), hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not present), and disorganized thinking. This profound impact on an individual’s perception of reality is what distinguishes psychotic disorders from other types of mental health issues.

Neurotic disorders typically involve anxiety, depression, or other emotional disturbances but do not usually involve such severe distortions of reality. Manic episodes, while part of bipolar disorder, primarily relate to elevated mood and energy levels rather than a complete break from reality. Anxiety disorders, while they can involve intense feelings of fear or worry, do not generally create a disconnection from reality either. Therefore, the term “psychotic” distinctly captures the essence of the mental disorder characterized by significant distortions of reality.