Look around, do you know someone with mental illness?
Chances are you do!
Warning Signs of Mental Illness - Be aware of these warning signs of mental illness:
- Marked personality change over time.
- Confused thinking or grandiose ideas.
- Prolonged severe depression, apathy, or extreme highs and lows.
- Excessive anxieties, fears, or suspiciousness, blaming others.
- Withdrawal from society; friendlessness; abnormal self-centeredness.
- Denial of obvious problems; strong resistance to help.
- Thinking or talking about suicide.
- Numerous and unexplained physical ailments; changes in eating or sleeping.
- Anger or hostility out of proportion to the situation.
- Delusions, hallucinations, or hearing voices.
- Abuse of alcohol or drugs.
- Growing inability to cope with problems and daily activities such as school, work, or personal needs.
While a single incident or isolated event isn’t necessarily a sign of mental illness, professional help should be sought if symptoms persist, worsen, or recur. These warning signs frequently first appear in early adulthood; be careful not to confuse them with adolescent growing pains. If you have doubts about any symptom, consult a mental health professional. Learning to recognize the warning signs can be the first and vital step to getting someone you love on the road to better mental health.
Don’t hesitate to contact either the local NAMI Santa Fe or the national NAMI office if you have any concern about yourself, a member of your family, or anyone you know.