There are people who perceive having a mental illness as negative and say it’s “all in the person’s head.” This biased ideology causes people to be ashamed of having mental health issues and makes them not want to ask for help.
It is very safe to say that everyone has their own psychological issue, some has control over it some doesn’t. The worst thing is to be in denial.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of Mental illness often is not a single change but a combination of behavioral changes. Here are some commons trends found among the people fighting with mental disorders or illness.
- Anxious or Worried: Although we get worried or anxious from time to time, but if this worry is constant and peeps every now and then, this could be the sign of mental illness. We also know this as Panic attack.
- Depressed or Unhappy: Being sad and irritable for the last few weeks or so losing interest a hobby and lacking motivation can lead to mental health issues. You will see people who are unable to be happy even with the happiest news of their life.
Emotional Outbursts: Mood swings are normal but, sudden and dramatic changes in mood, such as extreme distress or anger, can be a symptom of mental illness.
Sleep Disorder: At times, insomnia could be a sign of anxiety or substance abuse. Sleeping too much or too little could indicate depression or a sleeping disorder.
Changes in Appetite or Weight: Fluctuating weight or rapid weight loss could be one of the warning signs of a mental health disorder, such as depression.
Quiet or Withdrawn: If there is a major change in someone’s behavior involving regularly isolating themselves, they may have depression, bipolar disorder, a psychotic disorder, or another mental health disorder. Refusing to join in social activities may be a sign they need help.
Substance Abuse: Using substances to cope, such as alcohol or drugs, can be a sign of mental health conditions. Using substances can also contribute to mental illness.
Feeling Guilty or Worthless: Thoughts like ‘I’m a failure, ‘It’s my fault’ or ‘I’m worthless’ are all possible signs of a mental health disorder, such as depression.
One or two of these symptoms alone can’t predict a mental illness but may indicate a need for further evaluation.
Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of age, income, gender, social status, geography, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion/spirituality, background or another aspect of cultural identity. While mental illness can occur at any age, three-fourths of all mental illness begins by age 24.
Knowledge, education and the right information can play a big role in releasing us from the shackles of stigma and generate sensitivity and understanding in our societies.
