Across the country, mental health is declining. The latest statistics show that close to 60 million American adults are facing a mental health condition, up from 42.5 million just a decade prior. An estimated one in five individuals received mental health treatment in 2021, an increase of 16 percent from pre-pandemic times. There are various factors contributing to our collective mental health decline, but one thing is for certain: Its impact is widespread.
Both adults and young people can develop mental health problems, and the symptoms can surface at any time. However, the majority of mental illnesses begin during the adolescent years. These conditions can affect people of all genders, backgrounds, upbringings, and socio-economic status.
If you are here now, you may be concerned about your loved one’s (or your own) state of mental health. While it’s true that everyone experiences periods of ups and downs, you may feel something more serious is taking place. Perhaps your loved one is feeling more tired, emotional, or withdrawn than usual. Maybe their priorities have shifted, and they have less focus on school or work. Their eating, sleeping, and personal hygiene habits might have changed. These could all be signs of declining mental health.
Let’s learn more about what this phrase means, what it looks like, and what to do about it.
What does “declining mental health” really mean?
When someone says, “my mental health is declining,” it means that they’re experiencing a negative change in their emotional and psychological well-being. This can indicate they are facing increased feelings of sadness, anxiety, stress, or hopelessness. It might also involve difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns, loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, or withdrawal from social interactions. Essentially, the phrase indicates that their mental state is worsening, and they may be struggling to cope with daily life or maintain a positive outlook. If you’ve heard (or said), “My mental health is declining,” remember that this is often a signal a person needs help.
To sum it up, declining mental health refers to the gradual deterioration of an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social health. It can refer to a person’s struggles with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other mental health disorders.
Various factors have the potential to trigger a decline in a person’s mental health, including genetic predisposition, traumatic experiences, chronic stress, and lifestyle choices.
What are the signs of “declining mental health”?
People experiencing declining mental health typically will face difficulties in managing their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. These struggles, in turn, can affect their daily functioning and overall quality of life. If you feel that your emotions or thoughts have become disruptive, or that you’re unable to cope with day-to-day challenges, know that these are tell-tale signs of a mental health condition.
Symptoms of declining mental health can include:
- Persistent sadness and feelings of hopelessness
- Excessive worry and fear
- Constant irritability or anger
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Drops in academic or job performance
- Severe or sudden mood swings
- Physical symptoms that can’t be explained
- Withdrawal from social activities or loved ones
- Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Changes in eating habits or drastic fluctuations in weight
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Loss of interest in once-loved activities
- Loss of interest in taking care of oneself
- Feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem
- Substance abuse
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, it’s important to seek professional help from a mental health provider. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing and improving mental health.
What to do if you or a loved one’s mental health is declining
If you or a loved one’s mental health is declining, it’s important to take action. Seek help and support from a trusted person or professional. Here are some steps you can take:
- Talk to someone: Share your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or professional.
- Practice self-care: Engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy diet, and get sufficient sleep.
- Avoid substance abuse: Refrain from using alcohol, drugs, or other substances that can exacerbate symptoms.
- Establish a routine: Create and maintain a daily routine to provide structure.
- Set small goals: Break tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Engage in hobbies: Pursue activities that bring joy and relaxation.
- Stay connected: Maintain connections with friends, family, and your community and avoid isolation.
- Seek professional help: Contact a mental health professional such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, or therapist. Or, contact your primary care doctor for a mental health screening.
- Schedule an appointment: Book a visit with a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
- Follow treatment plans: Adhere to prescribed medications and therapy sessions.
- Educate yourself: Learn about the mental health condition to better understand and manage it.
- Be patient: Understand that recovery takes time and progress may be gradual.
- Join support groups, family therapy, or other community resources: Join support groups for individuals with similar experiences, or tap into community mental health services if available. Additionally, consider incorporating your family members into your treatment sessions.
Turnbridge is a recognized mental health treatment provider, with inpatient and outpatient programs available to teenagers and young adults struggling. Contact us at 877-581-1793 to learn more about our mental health and substance abuse treatment programs today.