Key Warning Signs of Mental Health Problems: What to Watch For
Mental health problems can sometimes be hard to identify, but they rarely occur “out of the blue.” The more familiar you are with the warning signs, the earlier you can seek help, whether it’s for yourself or someone you know who may be struggling. Continue reading to learn how to detect some of the signs of mental health problems, as well as resources for getting help.
Common Warning Signs of Mental Health Problems
Changes in sleep or appetite: Slight variability in our sleep and appetite is normal, but if this becomes extreme, such as going several weeks without sleep or experiencing a total loss of appetite, this could be a sign of an underlying mental health problem.
Changes in mood: Our moods can fluctuate from day to day or even hour to hour, but if these fluctuations are more dramatic (i.e. feelings of euphoria and/or depression), if they occur more frequently, or if they are prolonged or intense, this could be a cause for concern.
Erratic behavior: These might include behavioral changes that occur suddenly or without explanation; behaviors that are dangerous or impulsive; or behaviors that seem uncharacteristic or disproportionate to a situation, such as wearing summer clothing during the winter or laughing at inappropriate times.
Avoidance or withdrawal: A common warning sign of mental health problems such as anxiety or depression is when someone avoids places they used to frequent, socially isolates, or loses interest in activities they previously enjoyed.
Difficulty functioning: When someone appears to be struggling with daily tasks or neglects their personal hygiene, if they no longer seem able to keep up with their academic or work responsibilities, or if they exhibit increased absenteeism or a noticeable drop in grades or performance, this could be a result of a mental health problem.
Impaired cognition or communication: This could show up as unusual or exaggerated beliefs about oneself, others, or the world; delusions or hallucinations, in which a person perceives things that do not exist in reality; paranoid or “magical” thinking; poor judgment; sudden changes in concentration or memory; speaking extremely fast, slowly, or not making sense when speaking; becoming easily confused or disoriented; or difficulty understanding and relating to others.
Alcohol or drug overuse: If someone is using a substance in a way that is or could be harmful to themselves or others, such as drinking and driving; if their substance use becomes habitual or excessive; or if they have developed a physical dependency on a substance that makes it difficult for them to stop using it, they could be struggling with a substance use disorder.
Unexplained physical ailments: Multiple physical ailments that do not have an identifiable cause or do not go away, such as headaches or stomach discomfort, or vague and ongoing “aches and pains,” could actually be signs of an underlying psychological condition.
Suicidal ideation: Any suicidal thoughts or gestures should be taken seriously and responded to by calling 911, 988, or seeking professional help.
Useful Resources
If you notice any of the previous warning signs of mental health problems in yourself or somebody else, it may be useful to seek help from a professional, such as a therapist or your primary care provider. Here are some other helpful resources:
Psychology Today has an option where you can find a therapist by city, zip code, or name, as well as a filter that allows you to search based on different types of conditions or therapeutic approaches.
American Psychological Association offers a psychologist locator where you can find licensed psychologists based on location, provider name, or practice area.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline is a free, confidential, nation-wide service that provides emotional support and mental health information.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a find a treatment page that directs you to resources for mental and substance use disorders in the United States.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available to anyone who is struggling or in crisis and offers convenient ways to connect including by phone, text, or chat. They also have a line for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.