May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a month observed to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans’ lives and to celebrate recovery from mental illness.
The signs and symptoms of mental illness can vary, depending on the disorder, circumstances, and other factors. Mental illness symptoms can affect a person’s emotions, thoughts, and behavior.
10 common signs of mental health issues include:
- Feeling very sad, withdrawn, or unmotivated for more than two weeks
- Out-of-control, risk-taking behaviors
- Not eating, throwing up, or using laxatives to lose weight; significant weight loss or weight gain
- Making plans or trying to harm or kill oneself
- Sudden overwhelming fear for no reason, sometimes with a racing heart or fast breathing
- Severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
- Excess use of drugs or alcohol
- Drastic changes in behavior, personality, or sleeping habits
- Intense worries or fears that get in the way of daily activities
- Extreme difficulty in concentrating or staying still
Founded by Mental Health America in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month highlights the importance of mental wellbeing, educating the public, reducing the stigma, and promoting support for those affected by mental health conditions.
You can help do your part by helping raise awareness and advocating for better mental health care and resources.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.