When someone is experiencing depression, anxiety or substance misuse, it doesn’t just impact them – it impacts their family and their community. We all can do our part to watch for signs of mental health struggles in family and friends. But how do you know when you or a loved one is in a mental health crisis and needs to see a professional? Let’s take a look at the signs and symptoms that can indicate a need for treatment.
Here are a few symptoms that indicate depression and substance use:
- Persistent sadness: A prolonged period of feeling sad, empty or hopeless.
- Loss of interest: Diminished interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities.
- Change in sleep patterns: Insomnia or lack of energy.
- Fatigue: A constant feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.
- Difficulty concentrating: Reduced ability to focus, make decisions, or remember details.
- Appetite changes: Significant weight loss or gain due to changes in eating habits.
- Irritability: Unexplained mood swings, increased irritability, or restlessness.
- Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities.
When it comes to substance abuse, there are several signs that indicate a person needs help:
- Changes in behavior: Sudden and unexplained shifts in personality or actions.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Failing to fulfill work, school, or family obligations.
- Social withdrawal: Isolating from friends and family, preferring to be alone.
- Tolerance buildup: Needing more of the substance over time to achieve the same effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Physical and psychological reactions when substance use is reduced or stopped.
- Loss of control: Inability to cut down or control substance use.
- Continued use despite consequences: Continued substance use despite negative impact on health, relationships, or job.
- Secrecy with use: Hiding substance use and being dishonest about its extent.
- Financial issues: Experiencing money problems due to spending on substances.
- Legal problems: Getting into trouble with the law related to substance use.
It’s important to understand that each person’s experience is different, and you may not experience or see every symptom on these lists. But if you read these lists and think it sounds like something you or a friend or family member are going through, it could be a mental health crisis so please contact a behavioral health professional. A provider can give an accurate diagnosis and provide guidance on treatment options.
At Luminis Health, we offer a wide range of mental health services, including:
- Behavioral Health Walk-In Urgent Care – for moderate to severe psychiatric symptoms that need to be addressed in less than 24-72 hours
- Outpatient Treatment for Mental Health or Substance Use – For those who are able to wait for a scheduled appointment. Telehealth options are available.
- Inpatient Treatment for Mental Health or Substance Use – For those who need 24 hour treatment
Please visit https://Luminis.Health/BehavioralHealth to schedule care.
