Signs and Symptoms

Unlike physical illness, mental health problems can be difficult to diagnose. While the spectrum of mental illness is vast, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, the common characteristic is that they all affect the way a person thinks, feels and behaves.

What To Look Out For

Changes In Sleep Patterns

Struggling to sleep or sleeping
more than usual

Drop in Functioning

A sudden and unusual drop
in usual activities

Lethargy

Significant tiredness and low energy

Substance Use

An increase in smoking, drinking
or drug use

Extreme Sadness

Often feeling sad and alone

Mood Swings

Rapid or dramatic shifts in
emotional state

Withdrawal

Wanting to be alone and uninterested
in social activities

Appetite Changes

Eating more or less than usual

Confused Thinking

Problems concentrating or
remembering things

Nervous Behaviour

Feeling nervous and suspicious
of others

Increased Sensitivity

Heightened sensitivity to sound,
smell or touch

Feeling Disconnected

A feeling of not being part of
your surroundings

Increased Anger

Getting unusually angry or violent

Random Aches and Pains

Experiencing unexplained
physical ailments

Thinking of Harming Themselves

Non-suicidal self-injury
or suicidal thoughts

If you suspect that you are experiencing mental health problems, reach out for help. If you suspect that a friend or family member are experiencing mental health problems, here are the steps to take.