Recognizing Mental Health Signs
Many people are unaware that the feelings that they are experiencing may mask an underlying mental health condition. Moreover, signs of mental health conditions can be often negatively and mistakenly perceived by others as intentional behavior or traits.
Below is a sample list of signs of depression and anxiety conditions. While many people may show these signs at one time or another in life, it may be a cause for concern when these behaviors are: 1) consistently present over several weeks; 2) extremely noticeable in their intensity; 3) out of character.
If someone you know may be displaying signs of a mental health condition. It is okay to ask them how they’re feeling and whether they need to talk about anything. Here are some ways to start the conversation. Remember to ask twice; it shows your sincerity in their well-being. Lastly, connect them to help.
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Depression warning signs |
Anxiety warning signs |
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Trouble sleeping, or sleeping too much |
Excessive worry |
| Feelings of sadness, worthlessness, guilt or emptiness | Feeling nervous, agitated, or easy to startle |
| Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed, social withdrawal | Difficulty concentrating and making decisions |
| Difficulty concentrating and making decisions | Increased heart rate, breathing (hyperventilation), sweating, |
| Changes in appetite | Feeling weak or fatigue |
| Fatigue | Trouble sleeping |
| Restlessness or slowed movements and speech | Thoughts of impeding danger or panic |
| Thoughts of suicide or self-harm | Restlessness and inability to relax |