Like many things in life, the earlier you get started on tackling a challenge, the easier it will be to overcome it. When it comes to mental health, early intervention is crucial for overall recovery outcomes. People with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or any other disease can quickly spiral if intervention and a treatment plan are not put into place. Below are early signs of mental illness and more reasons why early intervention is so important.
How to Recognize the Early Signs of Mental Illness
While mental health is becoming a more mainstream topic area, there is still a stigma associated with many conditions. Someone who says they are anxious or depressed may be quickly dismissed and told to “go to yoga” or “get out of their funk.” An individual who is unable to express their feelings may be seen as inverted. However, mental health should not be taken lightly. Everyone’s feelings should be validated, and appropriate action should be taken.
Some of the earliest signs of a mental health illness include mood changes, insomnia, appetite fluctuations, and social withdrawal. You may witness a friend that you used to hang out with all the time slowly fade into the background. A colleague may be quick to throw a tantrum when they get another task added to their plate, when in the past they may have welcomed the extra challenge.
Another common sign is the inability to cope with difficult situations. This one may be harder to pinpoint, especially in today’s world. While it’s normal to feel stressed from time to time, it’s abnormal to feel overwhelmed, panicky, and completely deregulated. Emotional and behavioral symptoms such as sadness or worry can also contribute to a mental health disease.
Recognizing these changes in a friend, family member, partner, co-worker, or neighbor will require looking for a pattern of unusual behaviors or incidents. It’s more than just a single occasion when someone may be acting strangely. Take note, and be prepared to address them sooner rather than later.
What Are the Benefits of Early Intervention
Although it’s not always an easy conversation to have, being direct with someone about what you’re noticing in their emotional and physical state can be extremely beneficial. Here’s why.
Improved Prognosis and Outcomes
The quicker you can get someone on a treatment plan, the more likely they’ll be able to stick with it. By using evidence-based techniques and strategies, individuals can acclimate to the treatment and see results in a shorter amount of time. For example, someone dealing with depression can begin cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). With this treatment, the individual will learn how to recognize and change negative thoughts and learn coping mechanisms to reduce these triggering emotions.
Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) may be used for someone diagnosed with bipolar disorder. This type of therapy focuses on routines and habits, establishing daily practices for the individual to feel regulated and in control of their choices and actions.
By addressing mental health conditions in their earlier stages, individuals can stop the progression of the disease. Disease progression can be taxing, leading to chronic illness or even long-term disability.
Boosts Social and Emotional Development
Social connection is a fundamental part of life. Without socialization, an individual can easily become preoccupied with their own feelings and withdraw from the world. Many mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, can cause patients to avoid social situations. This can lead to staying in bed all day and refusing to put on real clothes and leave the house. Early intervention can prevent these types of behaviors from further developing, instead challenging individuals to cope and engage with others.
Support groups and group therapy can be used as part of a treatment plan to encourage social and emotional development. This may be particularly important for younger patients who are still learning the skills to interact with others and form relationships. Talking about feelings with others can also empower individuals. They may finally realize that they are not alone in their struggles and that so many people feel the same way they do.
Reduces the Risk of Secondary Complications
Secondary complications, such as substance abuse or even self-harm, are a large concern for those struggling with their mental health. A primary mental health illness can, unfortunately, trigger these other issues. Oftentimes, this is because the individual is isolated and unable to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
This is why those with a mental health illness may fall into the trap of alcoholism or substance abuse disorder. They may feel like these substances are helping them cope, slowly becoming dependent on them, or overusing them altogether.
Mental health conditions can also coexist with others, such as someone with post-traumatic stress disorder may also be dealing with anxiety or depression. The prevalence of both of these illnesses can lead to worsening symptoms and behaviors.
In Conclusion
Early intervention of a mental health illness can go a long way in supporting the individual and reducing the stigma associated with these diseases. Raising awareness of mental health can help create a culture of understanding rather than something to be ashamed of. If you see a loved one struggling, educate and arm yourself with the resources and tools to address the situation properly. Doing so early on can be advantageous for recovery outcomes.
