Overall, any noticeable and unhelpful change is a sign that we must stop, reflect, and seek professional help.
How to help a mentally ill family member who refuses treatment: Health isn't a priority in India unless it reaches curative care. Any of us consult a doctor when something disturbs us. More worrisome than physical health, mental health is in its infancy in a country like India, where it is paving the growth road for itself. It hasn't yet become as important as physical health, mainly because it isn't visible and can be pushed under the rug. Additionally, people are oblivious to psychological signs and symptoms, making it challenging to take care of them or make changes to their lifestyle.
Let's talk about some signs one can notice and take action on:
Substance abuse - Excessive usage of substances can be due to any stressful event or precipitator in life. Check on the quantity you intake, and if it is surprisingly higher than your consumption pattern, you must seek professional help. Substance abuse is a common coping mechanism (unhealthy), and any excessive usage of it is directly harmful to physical health. Abusing a substance alters the cognitive and executive functions of an individual, incapacitating them for daily living.
Changes in behaviour Noticeable changes in behaviour, such as reactivity to the situation, frequent mood swings, adaptability, etc., are some signs of a personality. Any significant behaviour change that is noncongruent with the personality or situation, noticeable to people around, or unhelpful are red flags to be noticed. For example, a calm individual is seen to get aggressive and irritable quickly.
Personal growth We often feel stuck in a place, question our existence, or search for purpose in life. Such questions can make us self-doubt, lose confidence and interest, or even question our self-worth. These could be turning points in life and usually help personal growth. Self-awareness and reflection help acknowledge strengths and limitations and target them to overcome or maximize potential.
Mood changes Strong mood disturbances, changes in interest and energy levels, social withdrawal, poor attention and concentration, overthinking, poor focus, anxiousness, and restlessness are other signs that disrupt daily functions.
Occupational disturbances There could be some bad days when we can't perform as well. When this persists, it is a red flag. Difficulty paying attention, focusing at work, losing confidence, and lacking interest are signs of paying attention.
Biological disturbances Our body is a strong communicator of any issues we experience. Sleep, appetite, menstrual cycle, and libido are the indicators one should rely on to assess one's psychological health levels.
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