Mental health is a complicated subject that can be daunting; but we can all learn to look out for
early signs of a developing issue.
Problems can be spotted early on if you know what you are looking for, and knowing how to
intervene in good time can make a huge difference to the management of what could become
a long-term issue with a very deep impact.
These are not clear diagnoses, of course, but being able to spot symptoms is important, particularly
for those in mental health jobs and also for those of us who simply want to look out for our friends
and relatives and make sure they receive the care they need.
“Problems can be spotted early on if you
know what you are looking for.
Knowing how to intervene in good time
can make a huge difference in the
management of what could become
a long-term issue.”
Here are some potential warning signs to watch out for:
Anxiety
Look out for signs of anxiety: we all show stresses and strains from time to time, but if a person
exhibits consistent signs of anxiety, this could be a cause for concern.
This could manifest itself in symptoms such as restlessness, palpitations, shortness of breath,
light-headedness or an upset stomach.
Lack of Motivation
If you notice a person becoming unusually demotivated in their work or hobbies – dropping out
of activities, under-performing or seeming disinterested in things they previously cared about –
this could be a sign of depression.
Unhappiness
If a friend seems unhappy, depressed or irritable, and this goes on for a period of weeks or longer,
this could also indicate something is wrong.
Listen out also for expressions of guilt or worthlessness, as these can be signs of depression.
And if the person expresses suicidal or violent thoughts, this is a clear cause for concern.
Social Withdrawal
Also look out for a sudden lack of interest in spending time with others.
If the person starts spending more time alone, this could also signal a mental health issue such as
depression, bipolar disorder or a psychotic disorder.
Diet
Fluctuating weight or rapid weight loss could also be a cause for concern, as mental health issues can
affect our appetite and weight.
Sleep
Lasting changes in a person’s sleep patterns can be an indication of a troubled mind, so if a person
is sleeping unusually little – or unusually a lot – this could be a symptom of a problem such as anxiety
or depression.
Other Behavioural Changes
If you notice other significant, consistent changes in behaviour that don’t seem to ‘fit’, these could also
indicate that something is amiss.
Particularly for workers in mental health jobs, it pays to be on the lookout for these behavioural shifts
and to regard them as potential warning signs.
Are you familiar with the warning signs of mental illness?
Have you or someone you know experienced mental health issues?
Share your thoughts and comments with us.
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Such an important topic and not discussed enough. Thanks for bringing some light onto it here. I have seen mental illness affect not only the person with it but those that care for them in such far reaching ways. Earlier intervention is always better. Great job! I will share this!
This is such an important topic. We should talk more about mental illnesses and spread the knowledge. It is more common than people know. Great post!
I’m glad you wrote and shared this. I feel like this isn’t talked about enough and there is a stigma associated with it.