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What is Mental Health?

Understanding Mental Health and Recognizing the Warning Signs

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It’s important to raise awareness about mental health issues and support those experiencing mental health concerns. In fact, inquiries about mental health and wellness are some of the most common questions asked at the Resource Center. But before we look at taking steps to provide support and break the stigma, let’s take a moment to understand exactly what mental health means. 

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health refers to a person’s psychological well being— including their emotional and social health. Emotional health is how we manage our feelings and moods, while social health refers to how we interact with others and maintain relationships. When disruptions in mental health occur, it may lead to health conditions or disorders called mental illnesses. These are medical conditions that affect a person’s thinking, emotions, and behavior. 

Common Warning Signs to Watch For

Recognizing the signs of mental illness isn’t always easy. It can affect how people think, feel and act, and can impact rational thinking, decision-making, and the ability to manage difficult situations. While there’s no easy test that can let someone know if they are experiencing mental illness, here are some common signs of mental health concerns:

  • Excessive worrying or fear
  • Feeling very sad or low
  • Difficulty concentrating, thinking clearly, or learning
  • Extreme mood swings, including uncontrollable feelings of euphoria
  • Persistent irritability or anger
  • Avoiding social activities or friends
  • Trouble relating to others
  • Changes in sleeping habits or low energy levels
  • Changes in appetite, whether eating too much or too little
  • Changes in sex drive
  • Trouble perceiving reality, such as experiencing delusions or hallucinations (where people experience things that don’t exist)
  • Difficulty recognizing changes in your own behavior
  • Overuse of alcohol or drugs
  • Multiple physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or chronic pain without a clear cause
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Difficulty managing daily tasks or handling stress
  • Intense fear of weight gain or concern with appearance

Knowing how to notice these signs in yourself or someone you care about can let you know when it’s a good time to seek help. For many people, acknowledging you need help is the hardest part. Seeking treatment for any mental wellness concern is a normal part of aging. 

We're here for additional resources.

If you’re seeking mental health guidance, our Resource Coordinators are here to connect you with local groups, organizations, and care providers who can offer the support you need. 
Reach out to the Resource Center:

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