The signs of mental illness can be hard to spot in ourselves, which is why it’s important to know how to recognize them. Anxiety, eating disorders, depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder are just a few mental health conditions that are common. If you’re concerned that your mental health may be at risk, here are the top signs to look out for.
So, you’re ready to make a change. You’ve decided to improve your mental health. Maybe you’ve even started taking antidepressants or started seeing a therapist. But how do you know if your mental health is really at risk? You can check this blog and understand whether you may be at risk for poor mental health.
Signs and Symptoms
Mental health problems affect more than one in four people each year. They can cause significant distress and interfere with daily life. Although the conditions and symptoms vary from person to person, there are some common warning signs of mental illness that are easy to recognize.
Examples of signs & symptoms include
- Confusion or reduced concentration
- Feeling down or sad
- Excessive worries, extreme guilt, or fears
- Withdrawal from activities and friends
- Extreme mood swings
- Significant low energy, tiredness, or difficulties sleeping
- Delusions, hallucinations, or paranoia
- Inability to handle daily stress or problems
- Suicidal thinking
When to See a doctor
Mental health conditions can sneak into us. You may not realize you have a problem until your health takes a turn for the worst. That’s why it’s important to know that these symptoms aren’t always clear-cut and to rule out anything that could be serious. The important thing to remember is that mental health symptoms can be as subtle as fatigue or sadness, so it’s important to pay attention to them and go immediately to the doctor.
There are different kinds of mental health issues, and each requires its own tailored approach to treatment. Therefore, the first step is identifying exactly what you are dealing with. Your doctor is the best person to assist with this process. They can conduct several clinical tests and screen for probable PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, or borderline personality disorder to accurately diagnose your specific issue and condition. With this understanding, they can develop a suitable treatment plan, which may include medications and therapies, to help you on your path to recovery.
If You Have Suicidal Thoughts
If you have suicidal thoughts, you need help, and the sooner you get help, the better off you will probably be. If a friend or family member is suffering from suicidal thoughts, there are several things you can do to help them.
Suicidal behavior and thoughts are prevalent with several mental illnesses. If there’s a thought or tendency to attempt suicide or hurt yourself, seek help straight away.
Way to Prevent mental Illness
There’s no sure way to prevent mental illness. However, taking steps proves to be effective in controlling stress, increasing resilience, and boosting low self-esteem, thereby helping keep one’s symptoms under control. In addition, there has been a rise in specialized retreats or treatment centers to help combat common factors of stress. Burnout Retreats are perfect for anyone with a highly stressful job, allowing them a break to recover their energy and mental health, while more day-to-day activities like yoga and meditation will suit someone who needs flexibility in their schedule.
Follow the steps below:
Pay attention to warning signs
Anyone can get a mental illness, and anyone can be affected. However, there are some warning signs that can help someone spot the signs of a mental illness before it has a chance to take root. Recognizing these signs, such as prolonged sadness, extreme mood swings, or withdrawal from social activities, can prompt someone to seek help early. Consulting a professional, like this Denver therapist, for example, can provide guidance and support tailored to individual needs, making a significant difference in managing mental health. There’s no shame in seeking out help as it’s a strength. So, whether it’s finding a therapist locally, exploring online therapy options, or joining support groups, taking action is a powerful step towards recovery.
Get help when you need it
Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, can be treated or managed. But many people with such issues don’t seek help or treatment due to social stigma, fear of being judged, or shame. While almost all mental health conditions can be successfully treated, they can be treated most effectively when they are determined by a qualified health professional. So, it is important to reach out to the right professionals for help, such as the ones available at mental health facilities like Serenity Mental Health Centers (www.serenitymentalhealthcenters.com), for instance.
Get routine medical care
While there’s no known cure for mental illness, you can get routine medical care to help prevent or treat your mental illness. It involves visiting your primary care physician at least once a year, and it’s a good idea to schedule a checkup before you feel ill.