Unlike physical illnesses that often present with visual signs and symptoms, mental illness can be elusive and difficult to recognize. While it is common for an individual to experience brief periods of sadness, hopelessness, isolation, and anxiety under certain circumstances (such as during exams or with a loss of a loved one), struggling with such issues for prolonged periods of time may be detrimental to your physical and psychological well-being and may be related to a mental illness. Although each illness is manifested in its own way, here are some general signs and symptoms that are often associated with mental illness:
- Changes in eating and/or sleeping habits
- Lack of interest in daily activities
- Social withdrawal
- Unpredictable or extreme changes in mood
- Abuse of alcohol and/or drugs
- Long periods of sadness, anger, anxiety, irritability or agitation
- Persistent physical pain
- Thoughts of suicide
If you are concerned about yourself or a friend that may have some of these signs and symptoms, we encourage you to contact the UTM Health & Counselling Centre at 905-828-5255 to speak to a personal counsellor, nurse or doctor.