In recent years, we have realized that mental health is not a stigma or something to be ashamed of. It is a serious issue that affects a lot of people every day, in every way and we need to address it on multiple levels. Countless individuals suffer out in the open, alone, and/or silently, which is why it's essential to look out for signs that someone you know may be struggling. Although the symptoms may vary, it's important to understand the common indicators that someone may require assistance with their mental health. Note that your actions, no matter how small, can make a significant difference to someone who feels alone, down, or indifferent. You never know how your words or actions could change their situation for the better. So, be aware, be kind, and be attentive to those around you, it will offer comfort to their souls. Let's work together to create a world where everyone feels supported and understood to some degree or another. This can be done by recognizing the signs of Mental Issues and taking action. Now, though there are more signals that exist these are a few of the obvious ones to notice.
12 Signs of Mental Health Issues & How to Take Action
1. Withdrawing from social activities:
a. If you notice someone beginning to avoid social interactions and activities, they used to love doing often you can:
i. Reach out to them regularly, invite them to participate in low-pressure activities, and or offer to attend something special with them without pressure or invading their space.
ii. Remind them of something they are good at or love to do and how you notice they always light up when they are engaged in such enjoyable activities.
2. Changes in appetite or weight:
a. If you notice a change in their weight and are comfortable addressing this concern, you can:
i. Inquire how they are doing and find out what is going on in their life with a simple chat letting them know what you believe you are seeing. You can also speak about something that is going on with you and then ask how things are with them. Your sharing can open the door for them to let their guard down and offer to share too.
3. Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much:
a. If you notice or hear them says something about significant changes in their sleeping habits or notice that they are sleeping too much or are always tired, you can:
i. Encourage them to establish healthy sleep routines, like going to bed and waking up at the same time every day of the week or you can have them seek medical advice if necessary.
4. Fatigue, lack of energy or overwhelmed:
a. If you notice or hear someone speak of being fatigue, having lack of every or being overwhelmed by emotions or feel like they're losing control often you can:
i. Have them pause and take a moment to just be and then offer support in prioritizing tasks, help them break down overwhelming situations, and encourage them to seek therapy or counseling to help improve their situation.
5. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions:
a. If they struggle to focus, complete tasks, or make decisions the way they have always in the past you can:
i. Offer practical assistance by simply being there for them, listening, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and encourage them to seek professional support as needed if what you are saying or doing is not working.
6. Increased use of drugs or alcohol:
a. If you witness someone relying on substances to cope with emotions or symptoms you can:
i. Express your concern without judgment, offer support in finding healthier coping mechanisms, and encourage them to seek addiction treatment if necessary. They may not be conscious of what they are doing because substance abuse can change the way one thinks in any given situation. Treed lightly or act gently because the person may not be in the right state of mind.
7. Unexplained aches and pains:
a. If they frequently complain of physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or muscle tension, which can be manifestations of stress and anxiety and you can:
i. Encourage them to see a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions and explore relaxation techniques or stress-reduction activities.
8. Increased irritability or aggression:
a. If you notice that they start behaving in ways that are uncharacteristic of them, becoming aggressive irritable you can.
i. Approach them with empathy and express your concern, offer support in seeking professional help, and remind them that they're not alone.
9. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities:
a. If they no longer find joy in activities they used to enjoy, you can:
i. Be patient and understanding, gently encourage them to engage in activities they used to find enjoyable and support them in seeking professional help if need be.
10. Thoughts of self-harm or suicide:
a. If you begin to notice someone expressing thoughts of hopelessness, helplessness, or even harming themselves or have suicidal ideation you shall.
i. Take any mention of suicide seriously, stay with them and remove any potential means of harm, and seek immediate professional help or call emergency services. (see the numbers and information below for guidance)
11. Increased anxiety, depression, or stress:
a. Individuals may struggle to cope with everyday stressors due to mental health issues, you can:
i. Acknowledge what is happening, validate their feelings, offer emotional support, and encourage the use of healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, hobbies, or even therapy. Provide a listening ear and help them explore strategies to manage anxiety, depression and or stress effectively. Need help on how to do this ask for it.
ii. Listen without judgment, help the person identify triggers, and encourage them to seek therapy or counseling.
12. Difficultly understanding reality:
a. Individuals may become disoriented, delusional, and may even experience hallucinations. In these instances, they are sensing things that don't actually exists in reality, therefore you can:
i. Bring your observation to their attention and ask if there is anything you can do for them.
ii. You can also offer to get them help so that they can get to the root of what exactly is going on within them that are causing these bottlenecks.
Conclusion:
In summation, it is quite important to remember that we all have the power to make a positive difference in someone's life. If you notice any signs that someone may be struggling with their mental health, it's crucial to approach them with kindness, empathy, and concern. Listen carefully to what they have to say and encourage them to seek professional help if needed. In the meantime, offer your support by helping them find resources and being there for them whenever they need it until a professional is able to get involved. Your patience and non-judgmental attitude can make a world of difference to someone who is struggling. Always remember that no matter what your occupation may be, you can offer your ear and your empathy to those around you at any time; it is apart of being a humanitarian.
Fact: 1 in 5 US adults experience mental health illness
Need Mental Health Professional Assistance?
1. The National Suicide Prevention Line. This hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7 to people in distress across the United States. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for support.
3. The SAMHSA Helpline. SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential information service that provides treatment and support referrals 24/7 to people facing mental illness and addictions. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for support.
4. Crisis Text Line. Crisis Text Line provides free, confidential support via text message 24/7 to those in crisis situations. Text HOME to 741741 for support.
5. The Trevor Project. The Trevor Project provides free, confidential support 24/7 to LGBTQ youth via a helpline, text and online instant messaging system. Call 1-866-488-7386 for support.
6. The Veterans Crisis Line. The Veterans Crisis line provides free, confidential support 24/7 to veterans, all service members and their family and friends in times of need. Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 or text 838255 for support.
7. 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish. Dial or Text 988
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