Mental illness is characterized by brain-based illnesses affecting a person’s mood, energy level, thoughts, and behavior. It’s estimated that 1 in 5 Americans experiences a mental illness. Although several mental illness-related symptoms have been reported, they vary from person to person.
Let’s talk about some common symptoms a person with mental illness can experience, what mental illness can look like, and where to go for high-quality and compassionate treatment.
Depressed Mood
Someone with mental illness may experience a depressed mood for long or short periods. For instance, when a stressor occurs, such as the loss of a job, a person with mental illness may go through a long period of depression, whereas someone without mental illness would go through only a short period of feeling mildly down. Depression can also occur seasonally in the winter months.
Anxiety
Someone with mental illness may experience heightened levels of anxiety in reaction to different situations. Anxiety can be social in nature, such as feeling uncomfortable socializing with new people. Or it can manifest as phobias, which are extreme fears and aversions.
Distorted Thoughts
Some people with mental illness have thought disorders, which can cause their thoughts to become distorted or not in touch with reality. Distorted thoughts can be extremely frightening and distressing for a person with mental illness. For instance, someone with mental illness can become extremely paranoid and believe another person is out to get them when in reality, they’re not. Distorted thoughts can be helped by medication and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Social Withdrawal
Social withdrawal is often one of the first signs of someone with mental illness. People with mental illness may start withdrawing socially from seeing friends or family members. This can be due to depression, anxiety, or low energy levels. Reaching out to someone who is socially withdrawn can be helpful, especially if the person is unable to ask for help themselves at that moment.
Suicidal Thoughts
Suicidal thoughts are thoughts of wanting to harm or kill oneself. They can occur in people with depression, mood disorders, or thought disorders. Suicidal thoughts are a mental health emergency and should always be taken seriously. If you are having suicidal thoughts, immediately contact 911 and/or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free at 800-273-TALK (8255) or text “HOME” to the number 741-741.
Mental Health Services in Richmond, VA
If you’re looking for help with a mental health problem, our team at Epic Health Partners can help. We offer a comprehensive range of psychiatric services, outpatient therapy, and more intensive treatments, such as community stabilization and in-home services. Our team is led by well-qualified licensed professional counselors and licensed clinical social workers to help you with mental health illnesses.
To know more about the treatment options or schedule an appointment, contact us today at the office location nearest you. We are conveniently located in Richmond, Martinsville, and Danville. Alternatively, you can also fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you.
