Early Identification of Mental Illness: Know the Signs and Symptoms
Mental illness is a global health issue, affecting millions of people. Understanding the signs and symptoms of mental illness may help with prevention, management, and recovery.
Early Warning Signs of Mental Illness
Mental illness affects people differently, and it is usually identified by a trained mental health professional after taking into account one’s personal, genetic, environmental, medical, and circumstantial history.
However, there are certain signs and symptoms that may indicate that an individual needs to seek further help.
Common Symptoms of Mental Illness
Symptoms of mental illness include prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger; difficulty coping with daily problems or stress; extreme mood changes; substance abuse; marked changes in eating habits; odd, uncharacteristic behaviour; and deterioration of functioning at school, work, or socially.
- Feelings of apathy and disconnectedness
- Extreme mood changes of highs and lows
- Withdrawal from family/friends and activities
- Significant fatigue and low energy
- Decline in personal hygiene or care
- Problems sleeping
- Problems with alcohol or drug use
- Major changes in eating habits – too much or little eating (i.e., marked weight or appetite changes)
- Confused thinking or diminished ability to concentrate
- Illogical or irrational thoughts/ thinking
- Detachment from reality (delusions), paranoia or hallucinations
- Experience of physical ailment without apparent causes
When to Seek Help for Mental Illness
It is important to note that not all mental health issues will need professional assistance.
However, if several of the above-mentioned signs and symptoms are present in an individual such that they are causing significant disruptions in personal, professional, and social life, it is important to seek help from a GP or mental health professional.