Common Symptoms of Mental Health Disorders

Mental health disorders affect millions of people worldwide, undermining their quality of life and overall well-being. These conditions manifest through recognizable patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that indicate that someone needs support. Recognizing symptoms of mental health disorders early enables timely intervention and effective management. With professional support, people can successfully navigate these conditions while maintaining fulfilling lives.

Persistent Sadness and Depression

Sadness is a universally human emotion, but persistent feelings of hopelessness, low self-worth, and loss of interest in activities can be early warning signs of mental health disorders, including clinical depression. Potential early warning signs of mental health disorders such as clinical depression include: 

• Sleep disturbances
• Changes in appetite 
• Excessive daytime fatigue
• Poor concentration or general mind haziness

However, for some specific groups, like seniors, sadness and depression can indicate cognitive decline or underlying medical conditions. For example, depression and early-stage Alzheimer’s are easily confused. Symptoms of the two can overlap, making it challenging to differentiate them without a thorough evaluation from a healthcare professional. Some research supports a link between clinical depression and an increased risk of dementia ^[1]. For example, age regression in seniors, along with signs of depression, is another potential indicator of dementia. Recognizing symptoms and ruling out other health issues helps seniors receive the necessary care and a proper diagnosis to protect cognition, mental health, and independence. 

Warning signs that persist for more than two weeks or interfere with daily functioning can cause significant distress. For instance, a person can often manage persistent sadness and depression through professional mental health strategies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, medication ^[2]. 

Frequent and Persistent Anxiety

Anxiety can be a mental health condition on its own, or it can develop as a symptom of other underlying disorders. In both cases, it can significantly disrupt daily life. People with anxiety disorders often exhibit phobias, intense distrust or paranoia, and obsessions that lead to repetitive behaviors. These feelings can be intense, unpredictable, and challenging to control. Physical and cognitive symptoms are also frequently present. 

Anxiety symptoms include:

• Persistent worrisome thoughts
• Extreme restlessness
• Increased heart rate
• Feeling as if breathing is challenging
• Profuse sweating
• Difficulty concentrating 

As a mental health disorder, anxiety is diagnosed as a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, or social anxiety disorder, which can be caused by genetics, stress, brain biology, brain chemistry, or environmental factors ^[2]. All three disorders often affect a person’s ability to function in social and professional situations, albeit to different degrees. 

As a symptom of other mental health disorders, anxiety occurs alongside or as a result of various conditions. A person may feel anxious about their constant sad emotional state when experiencing depression. Someone with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may experience anxiety over reliving a traumatic situation. In these cases, anxiety is not the primary issue.  Instead, it is a secondary symptom triggered by the underlying disorder.

With treatment, the vast majority of patients with GAD, panic disorder, or social anxiety disorder can realize significant relief from their symptoms. Relaxation techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and in some cases, medication are effective interventions for managing anxiety disorders and improving outcomes ^[2].

Extreme Mood Swings 

Drastic and difficult-to-control mood swings may indicate conditions such as mood disorders or bipolar disorder ^[3]. People exhibiting emotional instability often experience intense highs and lows, such as grand ideas followed by deep self-doubt or manic excitement followed by depressive fatigue. These shifts frequently affect relationships, job performance, school performance, and overall quality of life. 

People with unstable emotions are at risk of: 

• Impulsive spending or gambling
• Risky sexual behaviors
• Increased alcohol consumption
• Violent outbursts
• Neglecting responsibilities

Mental health professionals frequently use mood stabilizers, therapy, and structured lifestyle adjustments to promote emotional balance.

Withdrawal from Social Activities

Alone time is healthy, but avoiding social interactions and withdrawing from once-loved activities is not. This behavior sometimes indicates the presence of mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and various other neuropsychiatric disorders ^[4]. 

People who live in a constant state of solitude often exhibit apathy, or an absence of interest. They are less interested in engaging with others, display flat emotions, or lack motivation to complete essential daily tasks. This disengagement from and avoidance of social interactions negatively impacts mental and emotional health. However, developing coping mechanisms or finding support from family and friends can help manage mental health symptoms related to social withdrawal or apathy.

Disrupted Sleep and Unhealthy Eating 

Sleep and nutrition are linked to mental health disorders, as both are essential indicators of psychological and physical well-being. Even in the short term, a lack of sleep or poor nutrition can cause the mind to fog, impair cognitive functioning, and elevate emotional distress. Therefore, when disruptive sleep patterns and eating habits continue, they can negatively impact quality of life, physical health, and overall mental acuity. 

Common sleep disturbances include: 

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or frequently waking up too early
  
• Frequent Restless Nights: Tossing and turning at night, racing thoughts, or persistent uneasiness throughout the night
  
• Hypersomnia: Prolonged sleep duration, excessive daytime sleepiness, or an overwhelming need to nap despite sufficient nighttime rest 

Appetite changes can manifest as:

• Abrupt Changes in Eating Habits: Changes are not intentionally related to a diet plan or exercise routine for weight loss, endurance training, or other health goals
  
• Loss of Appetite: Food is generally unappealing, and there is no desire to eat
  
• Overeating: Experiencing a significant increase in appetite
  
• Sudden Picky Eating Behaviors: Only wanting certain colored or textured foods or an extreme dislike for anything with a specific flavor
  
• Unplanned Weight Changes: Changes of more than five pounds in a short period that are not related to diet, exercise, or a known health condition 

Depression, anxiety, or eating disorders may cause sleep disturbances and appetite changes that often occur together ^[5]. Understanding how these changes correlate with mental well-being helps people recognize when to get help for mental health concerns.

Difficulty Focusing or Completing Tasks 

Struggling with focus, impulsivity, and inattentiveness to essential tasks can be signs of several mental health disorders, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) ^[6]. These mental disorder signs and symptoms affect academic and professional performance, leading to diminished quality of life, frustration, and increased self-doubt. Over time, this loss of focus sometimes leads to financial struggles such as a job loss or the inability to pay bills. 

People experiencing persistent cognitive difficulties require a professional evaluation. A mental health professional can conduct a thorough assessment to identify the underlying physical, psychological, or mental health cause. Following an evaluation, a medical professional can recommend appropriate treatment, including therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes to enhance cognition and improve focus.

Unexplained Physical Symptoms

Mental and physical health are closely connected, and changes in one can directly affect the other. Mental health disorders sometimes manifest as chronic pain without a clear medical cause ^[7]. There are several ways in which mental health disorders might physically manifest in the body, including: 

• Frequent headaches
• Unresolved stomach issues
• Heart palpitations
• Night sweats
• Chronic fatigue
• Muscle tension or body aches

These symptoms might be caused by prolonged stress, anxiety, or depression. It’s essential to first rule out any underlying physical condition through medical evaluation and testing. If no physical cause is found, it may be time to consider how mental health could be contributing. Addressing emotional or psychological concerns can often relieve these physical issues. Getting physical and mental health support is a key part of feeling better overall.

Self-Harm and Suicidal Thoughts 

Suicidal ideation and discussions of self-harm are more than mental health warning signs. They are urgent calls for help, signaling a deep and often overwhelming mental health crisis. Words and actions that indicate a desire for self-harm carry immense stakes, as a person struggling with such thoughts may feel trapped in emotional pain. The person is often unable to see a way forward. 

Sometimes, a visibly distressed person may shift and appear calmer or more at peace. While this shift feels reassuring, it can indicate a dangerous resolve and a more immediate need for intervention. This sudden calmness may reflect a decision to act on suicidal thoughts or other harmful intentions, signaling that the person has moved from uncertainty to a fixed plan. Recognizing this change as a potential red flag is essential for timely support and crisis prevention.

Warning signs of suicidal thoughts include:

• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, or thoughts of burdening others.
  
• Engaging in self-harm, such as cutting, burning, or other self-destructive behaviors.
  
• Withdrawing from family, friends, and social activities seemingly without reason and for prolonged periods.
  
• Taking unnecessary risks, including substance abuse or reckless driving.
  
• Talking about death, making final arrangements, or giving away sentimental belongings.

Seek emergency assistance and intervention to ensure safety and provide support in managing this severe mental health crisis. Compassionate presence from loved ones can be a lifeline, reassuring that help is available and healing is possible. If someone is struggling, do not wait. For immediate, no-cost assistance from a mobile device, text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor through the Crisis Text Line.

When to Seek Help 

How can someone know if they have a mental health disorder? The process involves recognizing symptoms and seeking professional support. From depression and anxiety to mood swings and physical symptoms, identifying warning signs early is supportive of effective diagnosis and management. 

Through understanding mental health disorder signs and symptoms, people are empowered with the information needed to create a sense of personal agency as they seek professional guidance, practice self-care, and build supportive relationships. All are essential for maintaining mental well-being and enjoying a high quality of life. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of a mental health disorder that are impacting your ability to cope with day-to-day life or any thoughts of self-harm, you are not alone. Professional, confidential help is available at no cost to you, 24/7. Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.