Which of these is the biggest sign that someone might be dealing with a mental health challenge?
Have you ever realized that a friend or family member is a little out of the ordinary? Maybe they’re acting so differently that you’re left thinking: “Is there something wrong?” And now and then it can become hard to tell, but there’s one thing that’s for sure – mental health issues can often go unnoticed, particularly when the indications are subtle or confused for something different. So which of these is the strongest indication that someone may be struggling with a mental health challenge? So let’s get into it and figure out what to watch for, how to help people who need it, and how to see these signs before they lead to crises.
In my own experience, I’ve seen friends and colleagues through times when they were “off,” but I didn’t recognize what perhaps was underneath for some time. The times when I also struggled mentally but didn’t raise my voice until very later are still recalling. Knowing more about mental health makes it easier to help others — or yourself if things feel too heavy to shoulder alone.
A Change in Personality and Behaviors: A Sign of Mental Health Issues
When someone is struggling with a mental health challenge, the first thing that changes may be their behavior or personality. They might be distant, cranky or unusually reclusive. It could be the result of the mental burden they’re under, which may lead to difficulty connecting with other people.
I’ve noticed this first-hand. A friend of mine was tense and withdrawn after a stressful work period. She wasn’t a conversationalist anymore, which was strange because she could formerly light up any social gathering. At the time, I had no idea she was struggling with anxiety and depression. Changes in behavior are often fleeting, so they must never be neglected. If someone you know is typically upbeat and suddenly seems withdrawn, or can’t stop snapping at people, it’s time to reach out to them and check in.
Feeling Overwhelmed or Stressed Out: A NonStop Indicator Of Mental Pressure
Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in responsibilities? A bit of stress is completely natural, but when it becomes overwhelming, it can take a serious toll on mental well-being. Someone experiencing mental health challenges may feel like they are unable to compartmentalize a single day, making even the simplest of efforts feel like a mountain they have to climb.
I remember a phase of my life where both personal and work-related problems had completely stressed me out. For a moment it felt like everything was surrounding me. I struggled to concentrate, sleep, and even do basic chores. I can’t decide whether to label it “stress” or “deeper,” but reflected upon, I see now that this consistent wave of feeling overwhelmed was my biggest red flag. If someone in your life seems perpetually stressed or tired, it may be worth checking in and asking if he or she needs help or just someone to talk to.
Changes In Physical Appearance or Hygiene: An Insidious Indicator
It can be common for mental health challenges to manifest in appearance. Someone who usually takes pride in being well-groomed, well-dressed, may begin neglecting hygiene, wearing sloppy clothing or displaying evidence of changes in weight. It is common for these physical changes to indicate mental health deterioration.
I recall a time when a colleague of mine (who had always been tidy and well- groomed) came to work disheveled. Initially, I assumed it was a rough morning, but this became a frequent pattern. Only later did I find out they were struggling with depression. It was a reminder that letting your physical appearance go can at times be a warning sign that somebody is falling apart inside. If someone who normally takes care of themselves suddenly looks like they don’t care about their appearance it might be time to reach out.
Particularly with Season 2’s introduction of Sasha
(Tamara Podemski) as a significant love interest, the series’ depiction of school-age kids occasionally needing to socially withdraw, but in extreme ways that resemble mental health challenges, becomes a more apparent theme.
Another strong sign someone is dealing with mental health challenges is when they withdraw from social interactions and avoid their regular circle of friends. They might also begin isolating themselves or declining invitations, even when they’d normally be eager to socialize.
I’ve been in situations where I detached from friends in highly stressful mental-health periods. The more time I spent in my own head, the harder it became to connect with others. I felt myself drifting farther away from everyone else in my life, which only increased feelings of loneliness. Social withdrawal is a classic symptom of a person struggling mentally, and it frequently occurs without anyone noticing before it becomes too late. If you notice someone retreating from their normal social life, don’t assume that person just needs space — he or she may need support.
Sleep Patterns : A Subtle Yet Significant Change
Do you lie awake at night, tossing and turning, unable to settle your mind? Altered sleep behavior is a well-known sign of mental health concerns, especially in the cases of anxiety and depression. Someone may be sleeping more, or on the contrary, having trouble sleeping at all.
I can personally tell you that sleepless nights are a red flag. During periods of stress, I would either sleep too much or be unable to sleep at all, my mind racing. Sleep issues are often associated with underlying mental health problems, and it’s a clue that the body and mind aren’t optimal. If someone you love is suffering from sleep disturbances, you may want to ask if they’re all right and offer to help.
Forgetting Things/Needing Reminders: If You Learn Less, You Forget More
Ever felt like zoning out at work or taking ages to do simple things? Mental health issues can hinder concentration, focus and even the completion of incremental tasks of the day. This can be pretty damn frustrating for the individual themselves, who may just be trying to soldier on without comprehending the degree to which this particular issue is affecting them.
I’ve been there. There have been days when I’ve stared at my computer screen for hours but couldn’t muster up the motivation to finish the task at hand. The mental fog was as dense as the wartime stench, and I could not find my way out of it. Difficulty concentrating is one of those signs people tend to ignore, but that’s a strong indicator of whether someone isn’t doing well mentally. If you or someone you know is struggling to stick to them, it may be time to discuss what’s happening.
Exercises Extreme Mood Swings: Mental Health Symptom
Though we all have mood swings now and then, if they became too extreme or too frequent, they could indicate problems with mental health, such as bipolar disorder or other mood disorders. These might include mood swings that range from extreme happiness (psychasthenia) to deep sadness (melancholia) or even irritability.
I saw this in a best friend who would alternate back and forth, extreme excitement and energy one day and extreme down the next. These mood shifts were jarring and worrying, and eventually my friend confided that she had been struggling with depression and anxiety. Extreme mood swings are a symptom that something bigger may be going on for someone, and it’s important to spot them so you can offer support.
Substance Use or Abuse: A Not-so-reasonable Approach to Mental Dysfunction
When someone resorts to alcohol, drugs or other substances to deal with their feelings, it is often a sign of an underlying mental health challenge. Substance Abuse: People may use substances to numb their pain, or to distract themselves from discomforting emotions.
I had been working with one of my colleagues. At first, I didn’t think much of it, but then because it became a regular habit, I knew this was their escape from the pressures they were facing. Using substance as a means of coping and a way to feel better can be a sign of underlying mental health struggles, so it is crucial to prevent this behavior from expanding too far.
Conclusion:
It can be hard to see the signs of mental health struggles, as it can be subtle and confusing. But if you see any of the signs we’ve discussed — changes in behavior, feeling overwhelmed, pulling back from social situations or mood swings — you should make an effort to reach out and lend support. Mental health struggles don’t always look a certain way, but they touch the lives of millions, including people you love.
If you’re struggling with mental health issues yourself, know that you aren’t alone, and you shouldn’t feel ashamed about seeking help. We all have our challenges, and sometimes it helps to talk about them as the first step to healing. Whether you’re giving support to someone else, or looking for help for yourself, recognizing the signs is the first step toward doing something about it.