World Mental Health Day: 10 Warning signs of mental illness

Feeling consistently sad, down, or hopeless for an extended period

Persistent sadness or low mood

Significant changes in sleep habits, such as insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or hypersomnia (excessive sleep)

Changes in sleep patterns

Frequent and extreme shifts in mood, from intense anger or irritability to euphoria or high energy

Extreme mood swings

Avoiding friends, family, or social gatherings and isolating oneself from others can be a sign of depression 

Withdrawal from social activities

 Struggling to focus, make decisions, or remember things can be a symptom of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Constant, overwhelming worry, fear, or anxiety that interferes with daily life and functioning 

Excessive worry or anxiety

Sometimes, mental health issues can manifest as headaches, stomachaches, or unexplained aches and pains

Unexplained physical symptoms

Increased use or abuse of drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with emotional or psychological distress can be an underlying sign 

Substance abuse

Expressing or experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide is a critical warning sign 

Thoughts of self-harm or suicide