Maybe you think that you’ll get over it. Or perhaps you’re telling yourself that another yoga class will do the trick, or an upcoming spa day will solve all your woes. But the fact is, some shifts in your behaviors, mood, and even personality won’t be solved by another self-care day.
Your mental health is just as if not more important than your physical health. Recognizing the signs and symptoms that something larger may be at hand can lead to more positive health outcomes. Here are five signs that your mental health needs more support than self-care.
1. Risky or Harmful Actions
If you’re experiencing risky, harmful behaviors or thoughts, your mental health likely needs to be addressed. Risky behaviors can be anything from an increase in alcohol use, substance abuse, or destructive and out-of-character actions like dangerous driving or even self-harm. These actions need to be addressed immediately, before you or someone else’s life is put at risk.
Seek professional help if you are experiencing any of these signs. You can reach out to a healthcare provider or contact an inpatient facility such as the Pathways Rehab Center. These centers can offer personalized care in addition to group therapy to support you through your recovery journey. If immediate help is needed, contact the appropriate crisis line, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
2. Prolonged Personality Changes
Any sudden or major personality changes could be a sign of a mental health condition. These shifts shouldn’t be explained by a significant event, such as the loss of a loved one or job termination. Any behaviors that are out of character for you, such as hostility, threatening language, or withdrawal, could all be personality change warning signs.
Another symptom to be on the lookout for is extreme mood swings. Sudden shifts to anger or irritability, or even a sense of hopelessness, could be a sign of a personality change. You’ll want to meet with a healthcare provider to determine the exact cause of your personality change. While it may be a sign of a mental health condition, it could also be a side effect of a new medication. Engaging in talk therapy, such as dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) can help manage your emotions and lead to a better quality of life.
3. Loss of Interest in Activities
Those struggling with their mental health may experience a loss of interest in activities they once loved. Also known as anhedonia, this persistent loss of interest could be a sign of a condition such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or substance use disorder. The keyword here is persistent. If you’re experiencing these types of feelings for more than two consecutive weeks, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a doctor or mental health professional.
A loss of interest can feel like being bored, apathetic, or even numb to once pleasurable activities. If you loved playing tennis with your partner, but could be less than bothered to play or even spend time with them, it may be a sign of anhedonia. The same goes for work. If you loved your job and no major changes have occurred, but now complain or feel completely uninterested, it could mean that you’re on the verge of burnout or depression. Speaking with a counselor or therapist can be beneficial in improving your mental health and picking up the activities that once brought you joy in life.
4. Daily Functioning Concerns
Another sign that your mental health needs a bit more support is if you’re experiencing any difficulties or inabilities in daily functioning. This may look like the ability to concentrate or make logical decisions, such as what milk to buy at the grocery store or what gas your car needs. It can also look like the inability to cope with daily stressors, such as missing the bus to work or having an argument with a loved one.
A difficulty in completing tasks or missing deadlines that you used to hit are also warning signs. Same for neglecting personal care, such as grooming, bathing, and other hygienic needs. If you feel like everyday life is much harder than it once was, speak up. A therapist or counselor can guide you in the right direction and suggest helpful habits to improve your mental health.
5. Change in Eating Behaviors
Food is a very personal choice. Everyone eats, but when, what, and even how eating occurs can be reflective of an individual’s preferences. That said, changes in appetite and eating behaviors in general are another common warning sign for a more serious mental health condition and/or an eating disorder.
Binge eating occurs when an individual eats more quickly and in larger quantities, to the point where they feel uncomfortably full. This eating pattern is likely followed by a session of feeling ashamed and embarrassed by their recent habit. This can sometimes lead to purging. On the other hand, restriction in eating or avoiding eating can be a sign of anorexia nervosa. In any of these instances, getting personalized support can be life-altering for individuals who need one-on-one counseling.
Final Takeaways
You know your body better than anybody else. If you’re experiencing any of the above habits or behaviors, seek help. A therapist, counselor, or medical health professional can steer you in the right direction, preventing any further hardships or deterioration.
