WARNING SIGNS

Changes in feelings such as fear and anger are a normal part of life. Personal situations, such as a divorce, loss of a job, or strained relationships with family or friends can cause emotional stress, thus making a person feel sad or blue. These are not unusual reactions. Certain thoughts and feelings associated with some experiences, however, may be warnings of more serious problems and the need for mental health intervention. It is not always easy to spot these warning signs, or figure out what they mean—qualified mental health professionals should be consulted in order to make an accurate diagnosis.   The following feelings and experiences may be warning signs: • finding little or no pleasure in life • feeling worthless or extremely guilty • crying a lot for no particular reason • withdrawing from other people • experiencing severe anxiety, panic or fear • having very low energy • losing interest in hobbies and pleasurable activities • having too much energy, having trouble concentrating or following through on plans • feeling easily irritated or angry • experiencing racing thoughts or agitation • hearing voices or seeing images that other people do not experience • believing that others are plotting against you • wanting to harm yourself or someone else

Did you know that nearly two thirds of all people with a diagnosable mental disorder do not seek treatment? Can you imagine if only one out of every three of your friends sought help for a broken arm? Stigma is what keeps many people from seeking the help they need. We are discovering that the negativity and misunderstanding that often surrounds mental illnesses can create fear and cause shame, which in turn causes unnecessary pain and confusion. What is Stigma? Stigma goes far beyond the misuse of words and information, it is about disrespect. Stigma is commonly defined as the use of stereotypes and labels when describing someone. Stereotypes are often attached to people who are suffering from a mental illness. The simple fact is that no one fully understands how the brain works and why, at times, it works differently in different people. Our society tends to not give the same acceptance to brain disorders as we do to other organ disorders, say, heart trouble. The stigma surrounding these misunderstandings can limit opportunities, it can stand in the way of a new job, it can increase feelings of loneliness, and it can cause many other unfortunate outcomes. Stigma must, and can, be exposed and overcome. Everyone must know that it is not their fault and that it is OK to ask for help. What can you do? If you know someone that seems extremely upset, maybe someone who displays extreme mood changes, or maybe even you yourself feel emotionally out of place at times ... the time is now to act, help, assist, notify, inform and get better. You just might be surprised on how much you can accomplish through understanding, hope, and friendship.