3 Unexpected Signs of Declining Mental Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
Mental health has long been one of those areas that we all try to ignore. It seems to make people uncomfortable to either deal with their own or someone else’s mental issues. Fortunately for all of us, the stigma surrounding mental health is beginning to die down. It’s becoming acceptable to say, "I need help," which is a great move forward. Still, because we gave it so little thought for so long, it’s tough to know what to look for and how to protect ourselves from declining mental health. While we all know the typical symptoms such as feeling blue or excessive fatigue, take a look at these three unexpected signs that your mental health may need some special attention.
Shift in Appetite
This can work in both directions. Those who suffer from mental health issues may see a sudden rise in appetite, causing excessive calories and weight gain, or they may see a sudden decline in appetite, causing a quick drop in weight. Either of these can be dangerous to your physical well-being, so getting help quickly is imperative for your health all the way around.
Shift in Sleeping Habits
You may already know that sleeping more than usual can indicate anxiety or depression, but so can sleeping too little. If you’re usually a good sleeper, and suddenly find yourself unable to get even a few hours of decent rest, it might be time to take a look at your mental well-being. The key thing to look for is a significant change. If your habits change suddenly and last for a while, address any underlying feelings or worries that may be causing it.
Inability to Focus
It’s not that we aren’t aware of this symptom, but we often try to explain it away. We tell ourselves it’s because we couldn’t sleep, or because we’re stressed, or some other explanation. While these things can also make focusing difficult, a decline in mental health may be to blame. If you notice that your level of concentration is less than your normal best, take note and be cautious. If you suspect a problem, seek help so that you can feel better.
Mental health is a big deal, often much bigger than we give it credit. Pay attention to your own needs, and get help when necessary. Protecting your mental health is necessary for living a happy and healthy life, so be attentive and put your mental health at the top of your priority list.