Most people feel that mental health issues are uncommon and they only happen to other people. In reality, mental health issues are prevalent as millions of Americans suffer from them each year. Many families are also unprepared to deal with the news that a loved one is struggling internally—it can be physically and emotionally draining and make one feel defenseless to other people's judgments.
If you or someone you know is facing a mental or emotional struggle, remember there is hope and treatment available. The following signs and symptoms can be managed through the help of a psychopharmacologist in Boston.
Sleep habits that drastically change over time may signal a mental health problem. Insomnia, for example, can be a symptom of anxiety or addiction issues. On the same note, sleeping excessively or insufficiently can be a sign of depression or a sleeping disorder.
We've all been anxious or stressed at some point. However, constant worrying or racing thoughts that interfere with daily chores or work can be an indication of a mental health disorder. It can physiologically manifest as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, restlessness, trembling, headache, sweating, dizziness, or diarrhea.
Being unhappy or irritable for several weeks, lacking drive and energy, reduced interest in a hobby, or constantly feeling on the verge of breaking down or crying are all signs of depression.
Suddenly or slowly disconnecting from life, particularly if it is a significant change, could also indicate a mental health issue. If someone continuously isolates themselves, they may be suffering from depression, psychotic disorder, or bipolar disorder. Commonly, this may be observed as refusing to participate in social activities.
A persistent feeling of guilt because of the smallest or least trivial things may also be a sign of a mental health condition. Thoughts of being a failure or useless are constantly in the mind of someone with depression.
They can also continuously criticize or blame themselves. The worst cases may involve thoughts of self-harm or suicide, in which case you'll need to seek immediate help. The first step in such a situation is to call the suicide hotline.
An eating disorder can manifest in a person in different ways. It could be a drastic change in weight, appetite, or self-image resulting from the thought that one is too fat or thin. It may also take the form of these signs:
This is not an exhaustive list of all the warning signs you should watch out for. One or two alone will also not diagnose a mental illness. However, it or they may hint at the need for an intervention.
Luminous Vitality Behavioral Health is a practice serving clients in Massachusetts that can help you address certain mental health symptoms. We provide telepsychiatry and in-person sessions for psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. Leave us a message to book an appointment or via our Luminello page.