Stress and distress are common experiences, but when mental health issues become severe or chronic, it can be very difficult to cope with them. Mental distress affects people from all walks of life, making no difference between age, gender, or religion – anyone can suffer from its consequences, but if not given the necessary attention and treatment in due time, this distress can turn chronic and wreak havoc on daily life. So, it is imperative to identify the signs and symptoms and, most significantly, consult a doctor, psychologist, or nurse specialized in their fields.
Below, we have why professional intervention is necessary to remain emotionally well and some warning signs that may indicate mental distress, so you can be aware of when to seek help.
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Why is professional Intervention necessary?
Struggling with symptoms connected to mental distress can be a very difficult experience, but the right professional Intervention can help improve your well-being. Their expertise can provide support and therapeutic guidance to help individuals better understand their symptoms and develop practical strategies to manage them.
Professional Intervention can also provide a safe space for someone to express themselves freely, giving them the insight they need to make a successful plan for the future. Both mental health professionals and patients are two sides of a coin who work together towards a common goal of improving mental health and well-being.
If you’re interested in making a positive difference in the lives of others, pursuing this career path will be not only mentally stimulating but also rewarding in terms of career growth. Many healthcare professionals opt for psychiatric degrees to broaden their scope of practice. For instance, if you’re a nurse, you can pursue an online PMHNP program and become qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat mental illness, all at your convenience!
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What are the alarming signs of mental distress?
Below is a list of ten significant warning signs of mental illness. Read on to discover how you can become aware of potential warning signs before developing more serious issues.
- Feeling persistent sadness
We all go through peaks and valleys throughout our lives, as per our experiences. It is normal to feel down sometimes, which fades away with time. However, if you cannot get rid of it and feel unhappy, numb, and hypersensitive all the time, typically, for more than two weeks, this could be a red flag that might lead to a mental health issue.
- Emotional breakdown
Although mood shifts are part of daily routine, frequent shifts in an emotional state (such as the quick transition from euphoric to sad to sudden anger attacks), occasionally for no reason, can be a sign of a nervous breakdown which is a kind of response your body is giving towards distress. Not addressing the issue can also lead to increased blood pressure and heart-related issues.
- Overwhelming fears and worry
As you grow, you encounter different problems that act as stressors. It can be work or education-related or financial crises; anything that pushes you to the brink of your capabilities can trigger anxiety. If you find your worries and fears (such as excessive anxiety with rapid thoughts, palpitations, shortness of breath, perspiration, headaches, or even gastric issues) impeding on quality of life, it may be a sign to consult a mental health professional for further assessment.
- Feeling apathetic
One of the major signs of developing chronic mental distress could be when someone starts losing interest in things they used to do. For example, hanging out, going for sleepovers, etc., anything that leads to isolation from family and family. Being socially disconnected is strongly related to feelings of estrangement. A person who feels disconnected from their surroundings and prefers to stay silent and alone indicates that they may need assistance.
- Irregular eating and sleeping pattern
It is possible to detect mental anguish through significant changes in a person’s eating and sleeping patterns. Loss of appetite or regurgitating food may lead to excessive weight loss, while over-eating can result in extreme weight gain. Additionally, an excess of fatigue with more prolonged sleep periods than usual and difficulties falling asleep are other telltale signs that something could be emotionally wrong.
- Difficulty in paying attention
Struggling to think clearly, make decisions and recall information for prolonged periods can significantly affect productivity and efficiency. If this is the case, it may be beneficial to consult a mental healthcare professional to tackle these issues head-on.
- Drug or alcohol dependence
The use of drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol are common among teenagers. But if it is used too often and excessively, it can signify depression or other mental health issues. Drug or alcohol addiction is a severe sign of mental distress and should be addressed immediately.
- Repetitive negative thoughts
When someone frequently has the same kind of negative thoughts, such as suicidal ideation or self-harm, it can be seen as another alarm for mental health distress. Even if one does not plan to commit suicide or harm themselves, it is essential to reach out for help, as such thoughts can take a toll on one’s mental well-being.
- Self-neglect
If someone is neglecting their physical appearance, no longer bothering to care for themselves, or has become withdrawn and isolated from society, this can be a sign of mental distress. Self-neglect is one of the most serious signs that an individual may need help dealing with their emotions.
Conclusion
These are some signs that can indicate an individual might be going through mental health issues. If you or someone you know is showing any of these symptoms, it’s best to seek professional help immediately. Mental illness should not be taken lightly, and getting the right treatment is crucial to improve mental health and overall well-being.
With proper guidance and support, one can fully recover and live a healthy, fulfilling life. If you are experiencing any of these issues, reach out to someone you trust or seek professional help so that you can get the necessary support.