12 Signs And Symptoms Of Mental Illness You Should Never Ignore

Signs And Symptoms Of Mental Illness You Shouldn't Ignore

Our mental and emotional well-being is essential for leading a satisfying and healthy life. However, mental illness can creep into our lives and make us feel anxious, stressed, and even depressed. Our mind and body often give us subtle signs and symptoms of mental illness as warnings that we should never ignore. Let’s explore some warning signs of mental illness on this World Mental Health Day 2023.

What Is Mental illness?

A mental illness is a condition that affects a person’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, or moods. These impairments have a significant impact on day-to-day life and may affect one’s potential to relate to their surroundings.

Causes of mental illness.
Causes Of Mental Illness or Mental Disability

Can Mental Health Disorders Affect Anyone?

Did you know that around 44 million U.S. citizens suffer from some mental illness every year? Most of us believe that mental disorders are rare. We tend to think that it always happens to others.

But the truth is, signs and symptoms of mental illness are far more common than we believe. Moreover, it can affect people of all ages and all walks of life. It can not only make us anxious and withdrawn but also affect our ability to function normally in our daily lives. 

Although we may not know what actually causes such mental illness, we can learn to identify the signs and recognize them during the early stages. This can help us to overcome these mental conditions and live a happier, more confident life, especially on the World Mental Health Day 2023.

But how to know if you have mental illness? Let’s find out the warning signs of mental illness.

Related: What is Mental Health And Illness?

12 Signs and Symptoms of Mental Illness to Look Out For

It’s true that most of us feel stressed and anxious every now and then. And the fact is, some level of anxiety can actually be healthy for us. However, when such negative feelings persist for over 2 weeks and start to affect our thinking, emotions, behavior, mood, and daily life, then it may be a cause for concern.

So if you are going through a rough patch or experiencing certain mental health symptoms, then here are a few warning signs and symptoms of mental illness that you must watch out for to identify and underlying conditions early:

12 mental illness symptoms.
12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

1. Extreme mood swings 

If you are experiencing intense mood swings more frequently, then it might be a signal for a more serious psychiatric issue. According to the American Psychiatric Association, “Rapid or dramatic shifts in emotions or depressed feelings,” can be a sign of mental illness.

Although most of us feel a range of emotions depending on experiences and situations, random, unreasonable, and dramatic shifts in mood and emotional outbursts usually point towards depression and other mental disorders.

Angry outbursts over seemingly insignificant things, crying profusely without any particular reason, excessive euphoria, and depressed feelings are things that you need to take seriously. This is how to know if you have mental illness.

Related: Should A Man Tell His Family and Friends That He Is Suffering From Mental Illness?

2. Feeling worried and anxious 

This is one the most common warning signs of mental illness. With our busy and stressful lives, it’s normal for us to experience some level of anxiety. In fact, some stress and anxiety can actually be good for us. Professional counselor Dr. Katharina Star, Ph.D. explains “Scientists have learned that some degree of stress or anxiety isn’t necessarily a bad thing.” Good stress or eustress “keeps us motivated and excited about life,” she adds.

However when stress, anxiety, and nervousness start to affect your physical health and your ability to function normally in daily life, then it can be a sign of mental illness.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the inability to control your worries may point towards the development of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Anxiety can lead to other symptoms like restlessness, insomnia, shortness of breath, heart palpitations,  racing thoughts, headaches, agitation & irritation, diarrhea, etc. You should seek professional help if you experience anxiety and related symptoms for over 6 months on a daily basis. This is one of the most common signs and symptoms of mental illness.

3. Experiencing chronic sadness

If you feel constant sadness, unhappy, teary, and empty inside for over two weeks, then it may mean that you are experiencing depression. Sadness is a normal part of the human experience.

However, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), when you experience chronic sadness and loss of motivation for at least 2 weeks, then it can be diagnosed as depression.

You may experience depression even though you may have a great life, a successful career, healthy relationships, and a perfect social life. Depression is a clinical condition that can affect anyone. So you need to take it seriously and consult a mental health professional.

4. Extreme emotional outbursts

Sudden outbursts of intense anger or distress can be a clear symptom of mental illness. Most of us become angry at times and often feel we are unable to control them. This may be caused by high stress levels and may even lead to anxiety if left untreated and unresolved.

So if you are experiencing frequent angry outbursts, then it can be a cause for concern. It can often be the result of depression, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, alcohol abuse, and even intermittent explosive disorder. Although we shouldn’t suppress our emotions, including anger, we should be able to control it before it harms others or ourselves. This is how to know if you have mental illness.

5. Trouble sleeping

According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults require 7-9 hours of sleep, but not less than 6 hours or more than 10 hours on a daily basis. However, when you find yourself sleeping too much or too little, then it may mean that you are coping with certain mental health issues like anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or a sleeping disorder.

Around 10-18% of the general population experiences sleeping problems. Sleep deprivation, insomnia, and oversleeping are commonly experienced among people with mental illness.

Moreover, about 50% of individuals suffering from bipolar disorder, depression, or ADHD experience hypersomnia or insomnia. So make sure to pay attention to your sleep cycle.

Related: Mental Health: The 10 Types of Sleep Disorders

6. Gaining or losing weight unintentionally

If you are experiencing drastic changes in your appetite or weight, then you need to consider them seriously as they are a prominent sign of mental illness. Rapid weight gain/loss or fluctuating weight can often be a result of an eating disorder, major depression, or some other mental health issues.

It can also lead to a loss of interest in eating or it may make you more prone to binge eating as a coping mechanism for your emotional issues.

If your change in appetite persists for over 2 weeks, then it is best to seek help. A proper mental health assessment under the supervision of a professional can help you understand any underlying behavioral health issues.

Looking for more warning signs and symptoms of mental illness? Keep reading to know more on this World Mental Health Day 2023.

7. Having trouble functioning in daily life

Do you have trouble getting through your day? Has your ability to perform at school or work declined? If you are having difficulties in performing daily activities, family responsibilities, and other social activities, and if there’s a noticeable fall in your performance level, then it may mean that you are coping with a mental illness.

According to the Australian Department of Health, the inability to function properly in normal situations and experiencing a rough patch for over 2 weeks can be a sign of anxiety or depression. In fact, loss of interest in activities that you previously enjoyed is one of the most common signs of major depressive disorder.

When your mental health is declining.
12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

8. Isolating self

Social withdrawal and isolation is one of the most fundamental warning signs and symptoms of mental illness that you should never ignore. All of us need some “alone time” on a daily basis. However, we also need to socialize and spend time with our family and friends.

But when you repeatedly withdraw from social interaction and isolate yourself, then it may hint at some underlying mental health disorder.

Being alone for an extended period of time can act as a symptom of depression, bipolar disorder, or psychotic disorder. So if you are constantly making excuses to cancel plans or avoid parties & events, or avoiding socializing, then you need to talk about it with someone you trust or see a mental health specialist. This is one of the major warning signs of mental illness that can help you understand how to know if you have mental illness.

9. Feeling disconnected

If you start feeling disconnected from your romantic partner, your family, your friends, or even your surroundings, then it’s time for you to take notice. When you feel detached from everyone and everything around you, feel excessively nervous and become extremely suspicious of your loved ones, then it can be a warning sign of mental illness.

mental illness symtoms.
Mental Illness Symptoms

Related: How Mindfulness Can Improve Your Overall Mental Health

10. Personality and behavior changes

As mental illness generally develops gradually, it can often bring about subtle changes in our thoughts, beliefs, perspectives, mindset, behavior, and even personality.

If you realize or if others tell you that you are behaving oddly, then you need to pay attention. Personality changes can be a glaring sign of mental illness and it’s crucial that you speak to someone about it.

11. Feeling worthless and extremely guilty 

Persistent negative thoughts can often hint at deeper psychological and emotional issues. If you are having unreasonable thoughts of worthlessness and often feel guilty for no reason, then you may be suffering from some mental illness.

Consistent negative self-talk, having low self-esteem and self-criticism can be a sign of depression and even lead to suicidal thoughts and behavior. Make sure to take this warning signs of mental illness seriously. This is how to know if you have mental illness.

12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore.
12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

12. Having suicidal thoughts

According to a recent report from the Mental Health Foundation, around 10% of adults under the age of 30 have had thoughts of self-injury or have considered suicide. Suicidal thoughts can arise from a number of experiences like trauma, abuse, emotional neglect, loss of a loved one, a significant life event, or even depression.

It is believed that about 90% of people who have committed suicide have suffered from some form of mental illness.

According to a recent 2018 study, “Most suicides are related to psychiatric disease, with depression, substance use disorders, and psychosis is the most relevant risk factors. However, anxiety, personality-, eating-, and trauma-related disorders, as well as organic mental disorders, also contribute.”

So if you are having suicidal thoughts or have considered harming yourself, then you need to reach out to your loved ones or call a suicide prevention helpline immediately. It is highly recommended that you speak with a mental health professional as well. It is possible to recover fully with treatment and support. 

Apart from these, there are some other prominent signs and symptoms of mental illness that you should never ignore on the World Mental Health Day 2023, such as –

what mental illness actually looks like.
12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
  • Confused & illogical thinking
  • Intense fears, worries and anxieties
  • Lack of insight
  • Abnormal thoughts or delusions
  • Seeing or hearing unreal things or hallucinations
  • Unexplained multiple physical aches and ailments
  • Increased sensitivity
  • Hyperactivity
  • Changes in sex drive
  • Chronic pain in gut 
  • Apathy 
  • Unable to manage responsibilities
  • Substance abuse
  • Defiance of authority, vandalism or criminal behavior

Related: Gut Health & Mental Health: Understanding The Gut-Brain Connection

Seek help, because you’re not alone

If you are experiencing some or all of these signs and symptoms of mental illness, then it is important that you speak to a loved one and seek immediate professional help. Early identification and treatment can greatly help you overcome these signs and symptoms. 

mental health.
12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

When coping with mental health issues, talking to a trusted family member or friend can make a huge difference as their support can encourage you to take the necessary steps to overcome your mental illness.

So talk to a loved one or call a helpline or speak with a doctor to get the help and treatment you need and deserve. Treatment can enable you to change your thoughts & behaviors and empower you to live a healthier and happier life.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the 5 signs of mental illness?

Feeling sad and hopeless, muddled thinking, limited capacity to focus, excessive anxieties or worries, mood changes, and withdrawal from surroundings are the five signs and symptoms of mental illness.

What is mental illness caused by?

There are multiple factors that can lead to mental illness such as genes, abuse, following a traumatic event, stress, etc.

What can trigger mental illness?

A trigger is a replay of a past traumatic event. This reminder might make a person feel depressed, anxious, or panicked. It may also produce flashbacks in certain people of the unpleasant memory.

At what age does mental illness start?

Mental illness can start at any age, from childhood to later adulthood, but the majority of instances start in the teenage years.  Mental health conditions can have short-term to long-term effects.

Mental Illness Signs Never Ignore Pin
12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Mental Illness Symptoms pin
12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore pin
12 Mental Illness Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Symptoms Of Mental Illness You Never Ignore pin
Symptoms Mental Illness Never Ignore
World Mental Health Day 2023

— About the Author —

Leave a Reply



Up Next

6 Benefits Of Walking: Why It’s One Of The Best Things You Can Do For Your Mental Health

Brilliant Benefits Of Walking For Your Mental Health

Walking is so underrated when it comes to ensuring mental well-being. There are so many powerful benefits of walking that can do wonders for our mental and emotional health. This article is going to talk about some of the best mental health benefits of walking.

Boost your mood, energy level, confidence, and more simply by getting your steps in.

Taking a brisk walk is a great way to clear your head, calm your mood, and keep you healthy. It may seem simple, but walking can have a powerful effect on your mental health, and the good news is that it’s free.



Up Next

Waking Up Feeling Anxious In The Morning? How To Deal With Morning Anxiety

Morning Anxiety: How To Deal With Anxiety After Waking Up

Do you experience anxiety after waking up in the morning? A terrible anxiety in the morning you just don’t know how to deal with it? Well, you’ve come to the right place. This article is going to talk about morning anxiety and how to deal with morning anxiety, so that your mornings feel more relaxed, calm and peaceful.

If you commonly wake up in the morning filled with anxiety, you are not alone. Many people wake up with fight-or-flight sensations and feel baffled as to how they can already feel anxious when their feet haven’t even touched the floor yet.

A variety of factors can play a part in morning anxiety: excess stress,



Up Next

Plant Parenthood 101: How Caring For Plants Can Nourish Your Mental Health 

Ways Plant Parenthood Can Boost Your Mental Health

Have you ever wondered why so many people are embracing plant parenthood? It seems like everywhere you turn, there’s someone proudly displaying their thriving indoor jungle or posting pictures of their leafy companions on social media. 

But this trend is more than just a passing fad; it’s a movement that promotes not only the well-being of plants but also the mental health of humans. 

Let us explore the concept of plant parenthood, why caring for plants is important for both plants and humans, and learn how do plants help mental health.

What is Plant Parenthood?

Plant parenthood is the act of nurturing and caring for houseplants as if they were our o



Up Next

7 Emotions You May Feel When You Decide To Divorce

When You Decide To Divorce: Unexpected Emotions You Feel

Making the decision to divorce is one of the hardest decisions to make. When you decide to divorce your spouse, you may feel a ton of emotions that you did not expect at all. This article is going to talk about those feelings and emotions so that if ever you make the decision to divorce, you know what to expect.

KEY POINTS

The decision to divorce is a personal and deeply emotional experience.

There is a common misperception that the person who decides to divorce doesn’t suffer from the decision.

The emotional journey is unique to each individual, and there are no right or wrong ways to feel.



Up Next

30+ Truths About Diet Culture, Eating Disorders, And The Process of Healing

Honest Truths About Diet Culture And Eating Disorders

Diet culture impacts so many people all over the world, and unfortunately, much of it’s impact is negative and harmful. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, then you’ve come to the right place. These truths about diet culture will help you understand it’s repercussions, and motivate you to live your life in a much healthier way.

If you are struggling with food or an eating disorder, these helpful points may offer you the nudge you need to change your relationship with food.

Related: Diving into Diet Culture Definition: 5 Startli



Up Next

Binge Eating Or Comfort Eating? 5 Ways For Comfort Eating To Stay Comfortable

Binge Eating Or Comfort Eating? Solutions To Curb Bingeing

Have you ever demolished an entire pint of ice cream after having a horrendously bad day? Was this binge eating or comfort eating? This article is going to discuss about both, talk about the differences between the two, and how you can stop yourself from binge eating often.

I have two distinct memories that involve eating. One horrified me, the other brought a sense of being understood.

Like most others living in a dorm, I had a small fridge in my little room in college. I was beginning to develop anorexia and was eating less and less, while receiving all kinds of accolades for becoming thin – which of course, egged on my disorder.



Up Next

13 Ways To Quiet A Worried Mind

Ways To Quiet A Worried Mind

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy for our minds to be overloaded with worrisome thoughts. So, how to deal with anxious thoughts? Here are 13 effective ways to quiet a worried mind, offering you the serenity and clarity you need to navigate life’s challenges with ease.

Our minds are basically recorders that play (and replay) their soundtracks all day long, sometimes all night long too. Some people have recordings that tend to be more pleasant and present. Some people’s thinking patterns lean towards the optimistic or realistic side.

Others, not so much. Many people are plagued with worrisome thoughts that lead them to feel chronically stressed, anxious, dep