Mental Illness

Articles

Oct 1

The effects of mental illness take an extreme toll on the lives of millions of individuals worldwide. During the first week of October, we join other mental health advocates in observing Mental Illness Awareness Week. It is important to raise more awareness about mental illness and how common symptoms can be for any individual, no matter their circumstance. Those experiencing symptoms of mental illness need to know that they have options to help them live a more independent and joyful life. For this year in 2021, the theme for Mental Illness Awareness Week is “Together for Mental Health.” It is a call for us all to advocate for better care for individuals who have a serious mental illness (https://nami.org/g et-involved/awaren ess-events/mental-illness-awareness-week). We will cover the many symptoms that may alert you or a loved one about the presence of mental illness and some of the misconceptions concerning mental illnesses.

Symptoms of Mental Illness

There is much variation when it comes to mental illness, as every individual is unique and has unique experiences. Mental health disorders can take on many forms, some more extreme than others. Although some of the symptoms of mental illness may appear typical for any individual, generally the symptoms presenting larger problems in an individual’s life may indicate illness.

Mood Swings

Signs of depression, meaning feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or extremely low mood can be misconstrued as typical when compared to other feelings of sadness. But in most cases of mental illness, there is an indication that there is no concrete reason behind these feelings. Often, individuals with mental illness experience feelings in waves, or mood swings, which go up into euphoric feelings and down into deep hopelessness.

Focus & Concentration

Some people experience symptoms of mental illness that are related to their ability to stay focused and concentrate on tasks that would normally be routine. Stress can also have an impact, which may be heightened during times of mood changes, even when the sources of stress are normally not as impactful.

Reality Shifts

For some, mental illness brings forth a shift in their reality, and they detach from their life in a way that can involve hallucinations or delusions. If an individual with mental illness does not experience hallucinations, they may have periods of increased paranoia, which may interfere with their daily routine or independence.

Lifestyle Changes

Major, sudden shifts in lifestyle choices can also indicate mental illness. Some individuals may suddenly develop problems with alcohol consumption or drug use as a coping mechanism. Factors that can have a major effect on overall health such as eating habits, social interaction, or sleeping habits can also be heavily influenced by mental illness. Individuals sometimes may withdraw from family or friends and isolate themselves. They could change their eating habits in an excessive or severely limiting way. Or they may begin to sleep more than usual or have trouble sleeping at all, which can exacerbate their feelings in either case.

Suicidal Thoughts

Unfortunately, suicide is not an uncommon cause of death for individuals in this day and age. Millions of adults have planned or attempted suicide and many more millions have had suicidal thoughts (NA MI). Although many individuals who have suicidal thoughts may have a mental illness, not all of those individuals will act on those thoughts. Talking about suicide and suicidal thoughts can help diminish the stigma surrounding the conversation. Sometimes speaking to someone about suicidal thoughts can help lead them to a diagnosis of mental illness and further toward treatment or management. Often, those who experience suicidal thoughts are overwhelmed by feelings of hopelessness and need the open door to help them work toward a brighter future. If you or someone you love have expressed feelings of hopelessness or something related to suicide, reach out to the many resources available to open up the conversation and help those struggling with mental illness.

What Causes Mental Illness?

As with so many other disorders or diseases, mental illness is more commonly seen in individuals who have a family history of mental illness. It is also common for individuals to develop mental illnesses based on life experiences. Another cause of mental illness can be tied to environmental factors, such as exposure to toxic chemicals, drugs, or inflammation while the developing brain is in utero. The chemical components of the brain themselves also play a role in mental illness. Some individuals have impaired neural networks which change the way in which nerves receive all-important neurotransmitters, which can have a major impact on mood.

Managing Mental Illness

Although you cannot prevent mental illness, you can be on alert for any warning sign within yourself of those around you. Managing all of the factors which can affect mental health is one way to address problems with mental illness. Stress management is one way to engage your mental health. We all experience stress throughout our days, but ensuring you have routines or methods to lower stress levels is key to management. Some individuals enjoy going for a walk in nature, some do yoga, others might meditate in a warm bath.

Occupational Therapy and Mental Health

If you are in need of assistance in managing your mental health, work with an occupational therapist. Occupational therapy addresses many aspects of an individual’s life, including their daily routines and ways they cope with symptoms of mental illness. An occupational therapist can help individuals develop and strengthen their resilience and ability to cope with changes in mood or levels of stress.

Learn more about mental health and related topics in our resources section. We offer many activities and ideas that you can do at home to help balance your mood, reduce stress, and increase mindfulness in your day-to-day routine.