It's essential to understand that mental health issues don't have to be serious to seek help. No matter what you're going through, your feelings and experiences are valid and you deserve support. However, if you start to worry about what you notice in your mood or behavior, there are warning signs to pay attention to and effective ways to seek assistance. Sometimes the symptoms of a mental health disorder can present as physical problems, such as stomach pain, back pain, headaches, or other unexplained aches and pains.
There is no easy test that would allow a person to know if there is a mental illness or if actions and thoughts can be typical behaviors of a person or the result of physical illness. The signs and symptoms of mental health problems can vary widely in severity and frequency from person to person. Examples of mental illnesses include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and addictive behaviors. Mild mental health problems tend to be less persistent and less disruptive to a person's daily life, while serious mental health problems can be so severe that they negatively impact a person's relationships or performance at work or school.
The Jed Foundation's Mental Health Resource Center provides essential information on common emotional health issues and shows teens and young adults how they can support each other, overcome challenges, and make a successful transition to adulthood. Mental illness can begin at any age, from childhood to the last years of adulthood, but most cases begin earlier in life. However, a mental health problem becomes a mental illness when ongoing signs and symptoms cause frequent stress and affect the ability to function. It's important to seek help from a trusted adult if you're still in school, who can help you find the mental health resources you need, such as a counselor or therapist.
Mental health professionals often measure the severity of a mental health problem by the impact it has on a person's daily life and the circumstances that caused the problem. The signs and symptoms of mental illness may vary depending on the disorder, circumstances, and other factors. If you have any signs or symptoms of mental illness, see your primary care provider or a mental health professional. So what are the 10 common warning signs of a mental health crisis? Here is an overview:
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Feeling hopeless
- Having difficulty concentrating
- Having difficulty sleeping
- Experiencing changes in appetite
- Having low energy
- Feeling disconnected from others
- Experiencing changes in mood
- Having difficulty making decisions
- Experiencing physical pain
Mental health professionals can provide support and guidance for managing your symptoms and improving your overall wellbeing.
