Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Common Mental Health Conditions

Mental health affects us all, either personally or through loved ones. Understanding the signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions empowers us to offer support and seek timely professional help.

Depression

•Prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness or emptiness
•Disinterest in once-enjoyable activities
•Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
•Fatigue, low energy
•Concentration difficulties
•Self-criticism or feelings of worthlessness

Anxiety Disorder

•Excessive worry, fear or restlessness
•Difficulty managing anxiety
•Sleep disturbances
•Concentration challenges
•Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating or trembling
•Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

•Extreme mood swings (mania/hypomania and depression)
•Elevated mood, grandiosity or impulsivity during manic episodes
•Decreased need for sleep
•Increased energy, agitation or irritability
•Concentration difficulties
•Impulsive behaviors

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

•Flashbacks or nightmares related to traumatic events
•Avoiding trauma reminders
•Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
•Sleep difficulties
•Emotional numbing or detachment
•Anger or irritability

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

•Inattention, disorganization or forgetfulness
•Hyperactivity (restlessness, fidgeting)
•Impulsivity (interrupting others, impulsive decisions)
•Difficulty sustaining focus
•Struggling to complete tasks

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

•Recurring, intrusive thoughts (obsessions)
•Repetitive behaviors or rituals (compulsions)
•Preoccupation with symmetry, order or control
•Fear of contamination or harm
•Mental compulsions (counting, repeating phrases)

Eating Disorders

•Distorted body image or negative self-perception
•Restrictive eating or bingeing
•Purging behaviors (vomiting, laxatives)
•Excessive exercise or ritualistic eating habits
•Social withdrawal or secrecy

Schizophrenia

•Hallucinations (hearing voices, seeing things)
•Disorganized thinking, speech or behavior
•Negative symptoms (apathy, flat affect)
•Social withdrawal or isolation
•Difficulty with concentration or memory

General Signs

•Withdrawal from social activities
•Changes in mood, appetite or sleep
•Difficulty coping with daily tasks
•Substance abuse or addiction
•Self-harm or suicidal thoughts

Taking Action

•Consult a mental health professional.
•Encourage open conversations.
•Support loved ones.
•Seek emergency help when necessary.

Early recognition and support significantly improve mental health outcomes.

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