Mental illness is extremely common. In the United States, it is estimated that one in five adults experiences a mental health disorder in a given year. That means that more than 45 million Americans are affected by mental illness. Mental illness can affect people of any age, race, religion, or socioeconomic status, and it can cause a wide range of symptoms.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it could be a sign of a mental illness. Keep reading to learn more about the early warning signs of mental illness and contact Therapy Group of Charlotte for effective treatment options.
Mood Changes
Many people with mental illness will experience changes in their mood. These mood changes can be very subtle and may not be noticed by the individual or those around them.
Some of the most common mood changes associated with mental illness include:
- Feeling sad, anxious, or overwhelmed
- Feeling angry, irritable, or frustrated
- Feeling numb or disconnected from your emotions
- Experiencing sudden mood swings
- Feeling like you can’t control your mood or emotions
- Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
If you are experiencing any of these mood changes, it is important to talk to your doctor or mental health professional. Mood changes can be a sign that something is wrong, and early intervention is key to getting treatment and getting better.
Difficulty Concentrating
It can sometimes be difficult to concentrate on tasks at hand, finish what you started, or make decisions when you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or down. However, difficulty concentrating may be an early warning sign of a mental illness.
There are a number of reasons why mental illness can lead to difficulty concentrating. One reason is that when someone is experiencing the symptoms of a mental illness, such as anxiety or depression, it can be difficult to focus on anything else. Additionally, many people with mental illness struggle with managing their emotions and thoughts, which can lead to difficulty concentrating. Further, having a mental illness can be incredibly isolating and frustrating, which can lead to a lack of motivation to concentrate on anything.
Changes in Eating Habits
People with mental illness may change the way they eat for a number of reasons. They may lose interest in food, or they may start to overeat or binge eat. They may also start to eat different types of food, or they may avoid certain foods. For example, people with depression may lose interest in food and start to lose weight. People with bipolar disorder may start to overeat or binge eat and may also crave sugary or high-fat foods. People with schizophrenia may avoid certain foods, such as vegetables, or they may start to eat more than usual.
Changes in Sleeping Habits
There is a growing body of research that suggests changes in sleeping habits may be an early warning sign of mental illness. For example, someone with bipolar disorder may experience extreme swings in energy levels, which could lead to insomnia one day and excessive sleepiness the next. Another theory is that changes in sleeping habits are related to changes in brain function. For example, research has shown that people with bipolar disorder have changes in the way their brains process information while they are asleep.
In summary, early identification and treatment are critical for helping people with mental illness recover and lead healthy, productive lives. Despite its prevalence, mental illness is still a topic that is often shrouded in secrecy and shame. This needs to change. We need to talk about mental illness more openly and honestly so that people who are suffering can get the help they need. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or someone you love, do not hesitate to seek help from a caring therapist.