MENTAL HEALTH

mental health and signs of distress

WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH?

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act – influencing how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions.

It’s just as important as physical health, and it can change over time depending on life experiences, stress, genetics, and environment.

KEY ASPECTS OF MENTAL HEALTH INCLUDE:
  • Emotional well-being: How you manage emotions like sadness, anger, joy, or fear.
  • Psychological well-being: How you think, reason, and process experiences.
  • Social well-being: How you interact and connect with others.
COMMON MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance use disorders
WAYS TO SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH
  • Regular physical activity
  • Adequate sleep and nutrition
  • Mindfulness or meditation
  • Talking with trusted people or a therapist
  • Limiting alcohol and drug use
  • Seeking professional help when needed

SIGNS OF MENTAL HEALTH high-intensity supports

Recognizing signs of mental health distress in yourself or others is an important step toward getting help early. Distress can show up in emotions, thinking, behavior, or physical health, and it often builds gradually.

Here’s a breakdown of common warning signs:
EMOTIONAL SIGNS
  • Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
  • Feeling unusually anxious, worried, or fearful
  • Intense irritability, anger, or mood swings
  • Feeling numb, detached, or emotionally flat
  • Overwhelming guilt or worthlessness
COGNITIVE (THINKING) SIGNS
  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions
  • Racing thoughts or constant negative thinking
  • Forgetfulness or confusion
  • Intrusive or distressing thoughts

 

Thinking that life isn’t worth living or suicidal thoughts (seek immediate help if this occurs, call your local emergency number or a suicide helpline right away).

BEHAVIORAL SIGNS
  • Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
  • Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
  • Decline in performance at school or work
  • Neglecting personal hygiene or responsibilities
  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs
  • Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors
PHYSICAL SIGNS
  • Constant fatigue or low energy
  • Unexplained aches and pains
  • Frequent headaches or stomach issues
  • Noticeable weight or appetite changes
WHEN TO SEEK HELP?

If these symptoms:

  • Last more than two weeks,
  • Interfere with daily life, relationships, or work/school, or
  • Cause intense distress or thoughts of self-harm