Almost half of all American adults will experience a mental illness during their lifetime. Unfortunately, only 41% of those diagnosed with a mental disorder during the past year obtained any form of professional help or health care. This void is a dangerous one since leaving mental issues untreated can have severe ramifications, including the development of chronic pain, increased risk for heart attacks, and other long term health struggles.
There are several unexpected ways that poor mental health can interfere with your daily life. From hindering productivity and impeding simple tasks to straining relationships and compromising your immune system, mental disorders take quite a negative toll. Conditions like anxiety can even inhibit your memory, disrupt your focus, and tank your self-esteem.
If you’re exhibiting one or more of the following signs, it’s time to bite the bullet and make a mental health check-up appointment. If you conclude that medical intervention is necessary, shop for non-ACA health insurance. That way, the expense of routine therapy appointments won’t financially debilitate you. Most out-of-pocket sessions end up costing anywhere between $65.00 to $200 per visit. Depending on your deductible, the cost of receiving therapy with insurance may be significantly lower than it would be without a policy.
Ready to take the next steps in healing your emotional wounds? Read on for more insight into the tell-tale signs a doctor’s appointment is in order.
Your mood fluctuates dramatically
When juggling compounding personal and professional responsibilities, it’s understandable to feel out of sorts now and then, especially with external factors at play. However, if you start experiencing erratic mood swings for no apparent reason, it may be a cause for concern. Take particular notice if your negative moods persist for an extended period or actively hinder your decision-making skills. Either way, a mental health check-up will clarify any concerns you have.
Your daily life is suffering
If your mental health is majorly disrupting your day-to-day routine, it’s essential to tackle any issues head-on. Impacts may vary from person to person based on individual circumstances. You might begin experiencing appetite changes or sleep disturbances, both of which can be vital signs that you should seek help. Developing insomnia may be an early indicator of clinical depression or intrusive anxiety.
You stop prioritizing yourself
When your self-care takes a hit, every aspect of your life suffers. You might find yourself limiting social interactions with friends and avoiding loved ones with a history of filling up your emotional tank. In some instances, your hygiene rituals may tumble to the bottom of your to-do list for an extended period.
Across the board, neglecting your individual needs is a sign that professional assistance might be necessary. Nine times out of ten, these experts will offer realistic ways to boost your emotional health and help you bounce back.
You feel anxious or terrified most of the time
If you’re constantly worried, panicked, or inundated with crippling thoughts, you may be dealing with a mental health disorder. Primary care physicians can often trace specific symptoms back to conditions like an irrational fear, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.
For those individuals treading rocky emotional waters, desperate to stay afloat, mental health conditions can interfere with day-to-day tasks from work presentations to routine grocery shopping. That said, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor. He or she will be able to identify what’s causing your debilitating symptoms and develop the best course of action for your lifestyle.
You are contemplating suicide
Pervading suicidal thoughts are unignorable red flags. While putting too much pressure on yourself is reasonable from time to time, contemplating suicide is not. Failing to tend to negative thoughts places an undeniable strain on your mental health. With these long-term effects in mind, it’s imperative to seek help as soon as possible, given that untreated issues only intensify with time.
Wrap up
Remember that prioritizing your mental well-being is non-negotiable when it comes to your overall health. If you’ve recently struggled with any of the critical signs listed above, don’t delay scheduling an appointment with your doctor.
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