10 Mental Health Check-In Signs: Mental Health Awareness and Warning Signs

Mental health self-assessment

They say life is a roller coaster, right? Sometimes you're crushing it and other times you're like "crunching on a snack and binge-watching forever in bed in your pajamas all day" or whatever activity you do to stall and escape". And that's okay, no judgements here, we've all been there, at least I have.

But it becomes a problem when this "off" feeling lingers longer than it should. That's why checking on your mental health is a BIG deal_ and knowing the signs that "Hey maybe you need to slow down and breathe or get support is important"

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health and overlooking mental health warning signs can cause severe problems in the future. So here are mental health symptoms to watch out for.

Tips and Simple Ways to Check Your Mental Health

1. Perpetual Feeling of Sadness or Anxiety or Grumpiness

We all get moody, but if you are feeling down, hopeless or annoyed for weeks then this is a flashing red light you shouldn't ignore. Your brain deserves better.

These emotions are normal reactions to life challenges but when they persist, it's a sign of more significant issues like depression or anxiety disorder.

2.      Withdrawal from Social Interactions

Used to hangout and chat with friends and family but now you are avoiding their calls, texts and get together (s)? Disconnection and pulling from friends is a sign of mental health struggles.

As humans social support is crucial for our well-being, so it's essential to address any change in social behavior.

3. Changes in Sleeping patterns

Can't fall asleep? Can't stay asleep? Or maybe you are oversleeping? Pay attention to your sleeping pattern and notice if there has been a recent change.

If yes, you should know, sleeping disturbances such as insomnia and excessive sleeping are mental health warning signs

4.      Change in Appetite and Energy level

If you are suddenly eating like a bear or not feeling hungry at all or even feeling tired all the time even after a long nap, then your body is telling you something.

Change in Appetite and Energy levels can be caused by other medical conditions or even hormonal changes but regardless they are signs of mental health concerns so don't ignore.

5. Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions

   Are you finding it difficult to focus, make decisions or even remember things? When you're mental Wi-Fi is slow, it might be signs related to mental concerns such as anxiety, depression or ADHD.

   
   

   

   
   
   
   

6. Reaching for Stress Relief

If you find yourself reaching for drugs, alcohol or other escape mechanism then you have reached the stage of masking.

You need to call for help

7. Loss of Interest in Activities you Enjoy

   When activities that you enjoy or brought you joy no longer appeal to you, it's a sign of depression or burn out.

   
   

   Take notice if you are consistently avoiding your hobbies, social events or activities you used to enjoy.

   
   

8. Dark Thoughts Hanging Around You

   Are you having dark thoughts? Do you have thoughts of self-harm? If you are thinking about hurting yourself or worse, don't keep it a secret.

   

9. Anxiety or Panic Attacks

   Are you suddenly worried about everything and anything? Feeling restless or even having panic attacks? That's your mind waving a flag for help.

   
   

10. Physical Symptoms

    Sometimes mental health warning signs hides behind physical pain. If you are experiencing Headaches, Stomach aches or random aches with no obvious cause then you might want to check the connection to your mental health.

    
    

    

What To Do If You Recognize These Symptoms

1. Reach out to a friend, a family member or someone you can trust and feel safe to open up to about your mental health

   
   

2. Consult a mental health professional: A therapist or a counselor can help guide and provide you with support and strategies to manage your mental health.

   
   

3. Practice self-care: Engage in activities that enhance relaxation and stress reduction like meditation, hobbies, yoga, exercise, sleep etc.

   
   

   Prioritize self-care

   
   

4. Take breaks and prioritize rest: take well deserved breaks and micro breaks too, rest as much as you can.

   
   

Ignoring mental health warning sign can lead to something bigger in the future. By recognizing these signs and taking proactive measures, you can prioritize your mental health and live a healthier and happier life.

They are national, local and online mental health helplines, so if you have mental health issues you can reach out to them. Research and reach out to the one you are comfortable with.

Remember: you are not alone and reaching out for help is the bravest thing you can do. Mental Health is a vital part of your self

Got a story or tip to share on Mental Health check-in leave them in the comments and let's support each other

Authored by Favour Fineman