"My friend looks quite depressed and gloomy these days; shows irritability, and behaves irrationally. I don't know what's wrong with him."

Does the above situation sound familiar? Well, thousands of people go through this on a daily basis. Yet they choose not to avail help since the awareness is very low.

Mental illness is as common as physical illness. Generally, psychological discomfort and illnesses impact a person's overall emotional, cognitive, spiritual, and physical functioning. For example, someone who is depressed has difficulty concentrating at work. They may also struggle to perform properly at home, school, or social situations. And the most dangerous thing about mental illness is that people don't even realize that they are suffering from an illness that needs immediate attention.

Hence, one must be wary of the signs and symptoms and seek instant treatment.

What are the symptoms of mental illness?

Although symptoms of mental illness could widely vary from one person to another, here are some common signs to look out for:

Mood Swings

A mood swing refers to abrupt changes in an individual's emotional state that either becomes excessively intense or pushes one into a depressed state. You may notice a person being pleased, then furious, upset, or impatient within a few minutes.

Although most of us experience mood swings on a regular basis, the severity and frequency may indicate a mental illness or condition.

Sleep Issues

If you are having difficulty falling asleep, keep sleeping all day or go back to sleep after waking up, this could indicate an underlying psychological disorder. Consistent changes in the sleep cycle or irregular sleep patterns are indicators of mental illness.

Incoherent thinking patterns

A defective or negative thought pattern is a primary risk factor that raises the likelihood of developing mental sickness. Thoughts such as "I am worthless", "I am a failure," "Everything hurts," "They are after me," and "I should die" indicate faulty thinking patterns that are accompanied by feelings of guilt or hurt.

These are cognitive distortions in which incorrect perceptions and beliefs lead to improper thinking habits.

Bizarre behavior

Sudden changes in behavior, according to mental health professionals, may also be suggestive of mental disease. For example, a child's diminishing academic performance could be a prominent symptom. Another example could be an individual's abrupt lack of interest in activities that he or she formerly enjoyed.

Identifying the underlying reason for these behaviors is critical in making an appropriate diagnosis. Obtaining assistance at an early stage is a positive start.

What should you do about it?

Diagnosis

Unlike physical ailments, most mental illnesses are not diagnosed by blood tests or scans. These diagnoses are made using behavioral observations, medical history, and assessments such as specialized test batteries or statistical scales. Furthermore, a mental disorder diagnosis is made by following strict rules.

Once a diagnosis is made, the mental health expert will collaborate with the individual to develop the best treatment plan for him or her. Psychological treatment may also include medication and behavioral interventions, psychotherapy, talk therapy, counseling, or lifestyle changes.

Avail for treatment plans

Mental health counselors devise an effective treatment plan after examining the warning symptoms of mental disease. There are various therapeutic interventions for psychological disorders.

The following are some of them:

• Talk therapy

• Psychotherapy

• Cognitive behavioral therapy

• Family therapy

• Group therapy

• Medication

Make lifestyle changes

Small lifestyle changes here and there can reverse your mental health status. For instance:

• Acknowledge your feelings, emotions, and moods to help you get better insights into the causes of your illness

• Take 30 minutes of time everyday to reconcile and create a me-time for yourself

• Indulge in a fitness regime, regular exercising, and meditation

• Try socializing and engaging in recreational activities

Reach out for expert consultation for your mental illness

The first and foremost step toward treating your mental illness is to find a certified mental health expert. So, if you notice any of the above mentioned warning signs of mental illness, contact our mental health counselors at Zivanza. We provide excellent mental health services in Dubai to assist people to live psychologically healthy lives. If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental illness, we recommend that you contact any of our psychiatrists.

Get in touch with us and reclaim control of your mental health.