Our mental health is one of our most significant assets in a world where pressure and demands dominate the day, but it needs care. Work demands and pressures of life take a toll on the mind. We have the notion that we can do it all because of our extended mental capacity, but the body and mind aren’t meant for the stress and workload we often put on them. This leads to emotional distress and other mental health issues.
Although mental health awareness is now taken more seriously, many still ignore the red flags telling them they need help. Others feel they’ll be good and that they can manage the challenges on their own. A 2021 mental health report revealed that 45% of Americans with a clinical-level mental health problem refused help because they preferred self-help. Most times, these individuals lack the proper knowledge to diagnose their condition. They could be worsening their mental health without knowing. Recognizing the signs someone needs mental health treatment is fundamental to early treatment and recovery. This article explains the signs that may warrant mental health treatment.
Signs Someone Needs Mental Health Treatment
The following are signs a person requires mental health treatment:
● Persistent mood swings: People with sudden mood changes or prolonged periods of irritability may have a mental health condition. They may feel lower than typical on some days and overzealous on others. It’s normal to be in a good or bad mood, but if it fuels your decision, you may require immediate treatment.
● Social isolation: If you withdraw from social gatherings or avoid interactions with friends and family, it may indicate a mental health problem.
● Obvious behavioral changes: Impulsivity, irritability, and aggression are common indicators. Also, binge shopping or surfing the web for excessively long hours to escape reality indicates a mental health issue.
● Difficulty completing tasks: If the person struggles to keep up with work or school performance, that may be a sign they are struggling with a mental condition. It can be a sign of a condition if they find it challenging to handle responsibilities or neglect family obligations.
● Irregular sleep patterns: Insomnia and sleeping more than usual can indicate a mental health challenge. Studies show that 80% of depressed people have insomnia issues. Recurring nightmares or other sleep disturbances might indicate a mental health condition that warrants treatment.
● Substance misuse: Using drugs and alcohol to cope with stress can signal that you need mental treatment.
● Appetite changes: Undereating or overeating can indicate a mental disorder.
● Excessive fear: Excessive worry, panic, or fear can point to anxiety. If it causes you more stress than it helps you cope, there’s a cause for alarm. You might have a mental health disorder.
● Physical symptoms: Inexplicable headaches, joint pain, weight loss, and neck pains can sometimes mean the presence of a mental health issue.
Note that the signs may be different for children, and other age groups may differ. Children may experience consistent tantrums or degraded school performance. For teenagers, signs may include withdrawal symptoms and increased irritability. Older people may have memory loss and mood changes.
Why People Fail to Recognize Signs and Refuse Mental Health Treatment
Many people refuse help for several reasons. The main reason is their preference for self-help, where they feel they don’t need mental health treatment. However, their reason boils down to the following;
● A lack of information on where to get help, what kind of help they need, and the cost of treatment
● A lack of belief in treatment, with many thinking that it wouldn’t help
● The stigma associated with mental health treatment. Many people worry about people finding out about their therapy, so they opt for self-help.
The poor distribution of mental health resources is a major contributory factor. Many people are unaware of how to safeguard their mental health. This is a significant barrier to care. Therefore, more clarity must be ensured in the mental health niche to help people comprehensively understand mental health challenges.
How to Talk to Someone with a Suspected Mental Health Issue
You may know the signs someone needs mental health treatment, but how do you approach them? If someone you love isn’t mentally sound, there are ways to approach the situation to avoid making them unhappy. The first thing is to choose a private and comfortable place to discuss.
The next thing is to communicate with empathy. Show your care and concern. Offer as much support as you can and encourage them to get help. You can look up for available help online on their behalf. Your support can be all they need to seek treatment.
Mental Health Treatment Resources
Therapy, medications, and support groups can mitigate mental health challenges. However, seeking professional help is the first step to take toward recovery.
At Satori Health, we provide various treatment programs and resources to help improve well-being. We aid individuals in understanding their unique challenges and offer the proper support they need to live a more fulfilled life. Get to us through our phone line: +1877-564-1319 for more details.