THUNAIPlease try to approach this matter without judgement but in kindness and love. Because of the stigma our society attaches to mental illness, it is often devastating for a suffering person to be told that “your behaviour is off” or “it is clearly depression or trauma” etc. See that your role here is to notice when the signs come up, with a goal to lessen your loved one’s suffering by encouraging them to seek treatment.
If several of the following are occurring, it may be useful to follow up with a mental health professional.
Sleep or appetite changes — Dramatic sleep and appetite changes or decline in personal care.
Mood changes — Rapid or dramatic shifts in emotions or depressed feelings. Finding fault with others for instance.
Withdrawal — Recent social withdrawal and loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed.
Drop in functioning — An unusual drop in functioning, at school, work or social activities, such as quitting sports, failing in school or difficulty performing familiar tasks.
Problems in thinking — Problems with concentration, memory or logical thought and speech that are hard to explain.
Increased sensitivity — Heightened sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells or touch; avoidance of over-stimulating situations.
Apathy — Loss of initiative or desire to participate in any activity.
Feeling disconnected — A vague feeling of being disconnected from oneself or one’s surroundings; a sense of unreality.
Illogical thinking — Unusual or exaggerated beliefs about personal powers to understand meanings or influence events; illogical or “magical” thinking typical of childhood in an adult.
Nervousness — Fear or suspiciousness of others or a strong nervous feeling.
Unusual behavior – Odd, uncharacteristic, peculiar behavior.
One or two of these symptoms alone can’t predict a mental illness but may indicate a need for further evaluation. If a person is experiencing several at one time and the symptoms are causing serious problems in the ability to study, work or relate to others, he/she should be seen by a physician or mental health professional. People with suicidal thoughts or intent, or thoughts of harming others, need immediate attention.
You may begin a conversation by asking how he/she is feeling lately and is there any source of stress in their life. You may then share your concern that you feel she/he may be suffering. You can then gently point to some of the signs you have noticed.
Be Gentle, Be Kind, and Best of Luck!