Top 5 Warning Signs For Your Mental Health

Mental illness affects millions of people around the world. Recognizing the warning signs can be critical for early intervention and support. Many people experience symptoms they may not even recognize as warning signs of mental illness. From subtle shifts in mood and behavior to noticeable physical symptoms, knowing what to look for can make a significant difference in getting the right support for your mental health.

Mood

Usually, one of the first warning signs of mental illness is a change in mood. This sign may manifest in various ways, such as experiencing extremes of emotion for prolonged durations, sudden changes in emotions or mood swings. For example, a person who usually seems happy and energetic might become sad, irritable, or angry for no apparent reason. Alternatively, a person who tends to be more reserved and serious might suddenly become unusually cheerful and outgoing. These shifts in mood could be a sign of a mental illness, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety. For more information about symptoms of depression, see my previous blog post.

Behaviour

Similarly, a change in behavior may be a warning sign of mental illness. A person who is struggling with mental health issues may act out of character or neglect their responsibilities. For instance, a normally punctual and organized individual might suddenly become forgetful, disorganized, or unreliable. Conversely, someone who is typically sociable and outgoing might withdraw from social activities, isolate themselves, or avoid interacting with others. These changes in behavior can be symptoms of various mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Physical symptoms

Mental illness can also manifest itself through physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems, fatigue, or sleep disturbances. For example, someone who is experiencing chronic stress or anxiety may develop tension headaches, stomach ulcers, or insomnia. A person who is experiencing panic attacks may feel shortness of breath, dizziness, or heart palpitations. Similarly, someone who is suffering from depression may experience persistent fatigue, loss of appetite, or disrupted sleep patterns (both sleeping for longer periods of time or not getting enough sleep). Although these symptoms may seem unrelated to mental health, they can be a sign of an underlying mental illness.

Substance abuse

Substance abuse can be both a cause and a consequence of mental illness. Many people who struggle with mental health issues turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their emotions, numb their pain, or escape their problems. However, substance abuse can also worsen existing mental health conditions, as well as trigger new ones. For example, chronic alcohol abuse can lead to depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, while long-term marijuana use can increase the risk of developing psychosis and schizophrenia.

Suicidal thoughts or tendencies

Finally, the most serious warning sign of mental illness is suicidal thoughts or tendencies. Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide, and it often occurs as a result of untreated or poorly managed mental health conditions. People who experience suicidal thoughts may feel hopeless, helpless, or overwhelmed by their emotions or life circumstances. They may also exhibit other warning signs, such as talking about death or dying, giving away prized possessions, or engaging in reckless or self-destructive behavior. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or tendencies, seek help immediately by calling a crisis hotline, contacting a mental health professional, or going to the nearest emergency room.

Recognizing warning signs of mental illness can be difficult, but it’s important to be aware of them. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these warning signs, it’s important to seek help. Mental illness can be treated, and there are many resources available to those who need them.

Prevention and self-awareness is another important tool in maintaining your mental health. That is why I created the self-care planner. This planner is designed to help you reflect on your daily habits and emotions to keep your wellbeing in mind and practice self-care.

Mental illness is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Recognizing the warning signs of mental illness is the first step in seeking help and getting the treatment that is needed. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these warning signs, it’s important to seek help immediately.

For the latest tips and information, check out the mental health section of this blog!