Mental illness is one of those taboos that people often hesitate to discuss out in the open. However, times are changing and today, people have started to see the importance of talking about their mental health.
But what is a mental illness in the first place? What are the signs you should watch out for?
Mental Illness: A Quick Definition
Mental illness is a type of health problem that largely affects the thoughts, emotions, mood, and actions of a person. It usually affects relationships and everyday life. Mental illnesses can also cause problems at home, at work, as well as in social settings.
However, contrary to popular belief, it isn’t something to be embarrassed about. Just like heart disease or diabetes, a mental illness is considered a medical issue. It is not your fault and treatment is available.
The following are the most common risk factors for mental illnesses:
- Brain chemicals
- Family history or genes
- Mental or physical abuse
- Physical trauma like head injury
- Something that happened in the womb (like an illness or exposure to drugs)
- Overuse or use of alcohol or drugs
A major life event can sometimes hit too hard, like a new diagnosis, divorce, job loss, or cross-country move. Sometimes, a medical problem can cause some symptoms of mental illness as well. For example, thyroid disease can result in depression. All of these can alter the brain chemicals responsible for controlling thought patterns and managing emotions.
Although there are people who suffer from mental health problems throughout their whole life, symptoms may come and go. There can also be complex causes behind them so your healthcare provider will probably check your health history. Some medical tests may also be performed if they suspect the possibility of a mental illness.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Mental Illness
Different mental illnesses have different sets of symptoms. Several potential symptoms may appear as early as childhood years. However, take note that children have more limited ways of dealing with or talking about their problems and emotions. Most of the time, their symptoms are also different from those of adults. These symptoms include the following:
- Increased instances of tantrums
- Behavioral changes such as being angrier, more difficult, or more hyper than usual
- Changes in schoolwork such as in terms of grades and study habits
- Getting a lot of nightmares
The following are possible symptoms of mental illness that may show up during teenage years and adulthood:
- Changes in habits such as staying away from social settings; using alcohol or drugs more often; and eating or sleeping less or more than usual
- Emotional changes such as intense feelings of anger, sadness, fear, or worry; losing interest in things enjoyed or loved before; or mood swings
- Changes in thinking such as having paranoid thoughts; hallucinating; having trouble remembering or concentrating; and being confused
- Physical problems without clear causes such as generic pains and aches; stomachaches; and headaches
- Trouble coping with daily stress or going about everyday life