The truth is mental illnesses are just as much illnesses as physical ones, but physical ailments are accepted by society. Mental illnesses, on the other hand, are still mostly taboo to discuss and can be life-long struggles for many people. If you think you or a loved one might be suffering from a mental illness, let them know that you’re there for them and keep reading for some common signs. Reach out to a health care provider for support and further evaluation.
Signs Your Loved One Has a Mental Illness
General Mental Illness Symptoms
- Appetite or sleep changes
- Extreme mood changes and withdrawal
- Lack of self-care or overall quality of day-to-day functioning
- Apathy or feeling disconnected
- Increasing uncharacteristic behavior
Bipolar Disorder
- Mood swings characterized by extreme highs and extreme lows
- Unusual behaviors that last at least one week
- Signs of mania: Decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, extreme restlessness and recklessness
- Symptoms of depression: see below
Depression
- Feeling sad or hopeless for an extended period
- Withdrawing from loved ones
- Losing interest in hobbies that once brought joy
- Extreme fatigue
- Agitation, lack of concentration, and weight gain or weight loss
Antisocial (Sociopathy) Personality Disorder
- Manipulative personality
- Narcissism and inflated self-importance
- Emotional detachment and lack of empathy for others
- Compulsive lying
- Quick to anger
Psychopathy
- Superficial charm
- Lack of remorse or empathy
- Being impulsive and irresponsible
- Behavioral problems and delinquent activities
- Engage in extreme behaviors or experiences
How to Help
- If you or someone you know might be in immediate danger, please call 911 or your local emergency number.
- Establish a support network for you or your loved one. Make sure you have a system of trusted individuals to lean on if you are struggling.
- Seek counseling to work through past, current, and potential future issues.
- Take a time out from unnecessary stressors if possible. Let yourself start to heal in peace, with the support of your medical team and trusted loved ones.
Have you helped a loved one who has a mental illness? Tweet me your go-to tips @lorenridinger and I’ll retweet to share.
