Top Five Signs of Common Mental Health Conditions
Disorders like depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and bipolar disorder all have warning signs. If you are concerned about these signs in yourself or others, talk to a trusted adult and get help!
Clinical Depression
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia and trouble sleeping almost every night
- Unable to focus on even simple activities
- Extremely low energy
- Loss of interest in things you normally enjoy
Anxiety
- Inability to follow a conversation or complete a task
- Fear prevents you from doing things other people can do
- Avoiding parties or social gatherings
- Worry that people are looking at you or talking about you
- Avoidance of public speaking
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Washing hands 20+ times a day
- Count things before doing a task
- Spend an excessive amount of time checking doors and locks before going to bed
- Spend hours doing grooming or bathing activities
- Repeat tasks to make sure they are perfect
Bipolar Disorder
- Extreme mood swings or extreme irritability
- Fast speech
- No need for sleep
- Overextended or committed to jobs they do not have skills for
- Excessive behavior – casual sex, spending too much
Resources
A good first step is always to call your primary care provider
We’re Talking Teen Health
How to find a therapist
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This post, Top Five Signs of Common Mental Health Conditions, was originally published on Healthine.com by Nancy Brown, Ph.D..
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