Mental health is not only about whether or not you have a mental illness like depression, or anxiety. It is also about your state of well-being and functioning. A person may not have any formal diagnosis, but still be struggling day-to-day.
No person is ‘happy’ or ‘well’ 100 percent of the time, so it can be tricky to know when your wellbeing is declining and when to seek professional help, says Brittany Hunt, Head of Quality, Innovation and Research Department at Clinic Les Alpes, Switzerland. “If you, or someone you care about, is experiencing poor mental health over a prolonged period of time, or your mental health is starting to negatively affect your functioning, it may be time to seek help,” says Hunt.
Hunt highlights several indicators that may suggest poor mental health and shares strategies to seek support:
Persistent sadness or depression: Feeling sad or hopeless for an extended period can be a significant indicator of declining mental health. If these feelings persist for more than two weeks, it may be serious.
Withdrawal from social activities: A noticeable withdrawal from social interactions and activities that were once enjoyable can signal a decline in mental health. This isolation may exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression.
Changes in sleep patterns: Insomnia, oversleeping, or other disruptions in sleep patterns are common indicators of mental health issues. Sleep disturbances may affect overall health and exacerbate mental health problems.
Extreme mood changes: Frequent and extreme mood swings, such as sudden anger, sadness, or euphoria, may be a sign of underlying mental health issues that needs to be addressed.
Difficulty concentrating: Struggling to focus, make decisions, or remember information may be a symptom of mental health decline. This can impact daily life and work performance, leading to further stress and anxiety.
Strategies for seeking support:
If you experience any of the above symptoms, share your feelings with trusted friends or family members. Seeking support from loved ones during emotional distress involves sharing feelings, concerns, and struggles, and seeking comfort and guidance. This provides emotional support, validation, and a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Additionally, if required, they may help you find professional therapist who can assess your symptoms and provide strategies to improve your condition. Moreover, connecting with others who are experiencing similar issues can provide comfort. Lastly, engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies you enjoy.
(Recognising signs of declining mental health helps in understanding emotions better. While these indicators may suggest declining mental well-being, they do not conclusively indicate poor mental health. It's essential to remember that these signs are not exhaustive)
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