Mental Illness: Know the Signs

If you notice someone you care about seems “off,” trust your gut. It is crucial to seek help promptly if an individual demonstrates significant changes in behavior, mood or overall functioning. Common indicators such as persistent sadness, social withdrawal and/or expressions of hopelessness should be treated with urgency, because timely intervention can make a significant difference in managing mental health challenges and preventing further deterioration.

In Adults & Adolescents

• Confused thinking
• Prolonged depression or irritability
• Excessive fears or worries
• Social withdrawal
• Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Strong feelings of anger
• Strange thoughts or delusions
• Visual or auditory hallucinations
• Inability to cope with daily problems
• Suicidal thoughts
• Numerous unexplained physical ailments
• Drug or alcohol use

In Children

• Inability to cope with daily activities
• Changes in school performance
• Poor grades despite strong efforts
• Changes in sleeping or eating habits
• Excessive complaints of physical ailments
• Defiance of authority, truancy, theft or vandalism
• Excessive worry or anxiety
• Hyperactivity or prolonged negative mood
• Persistent nightmares or intense fear
• Persistent disobedience or aggression
• Frequent temper tantrums or outbursts of anger

If these symptoms sound familiar, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional to get help. If you or someone you know is in immediate crisis, call 911.