Breaking the Stigma: Recognising the Early Warning Signs of Mental Health Challenges

22 Jun Breaking the Stigma: Recognising the Early Warning Signs of Mental Health Challenges

Being a tradie is a physically demanding job so it’s normal for tradies to try and stay in shape and focus in or even discuss physical health and fitness. However, mental health, showing and discussing struggles is still not commonplace within the trades community and not often discussed.

Mental health concerns are not discussed as openly because of stigma associated with the topic. Often, there are negative views about mental health, due to misunderstandings, cultural beliefs, misconceptions and/or lack of knowledge about mental health conditions and the associated signs and symptoms. Whilst this is changing post-Covid, more people are breaking down the stigma around mental health there are still times mental health concerns are ignored or may even be deliberately covered up. The signs and symptoms can go unrecognised or be wrongly attributed to a stage of life or even personality traits. As a result, individuals can go a long time without getting the support that they need. As an example, if an individual breaks their arm, the treatment process is straightforward – go to hospital, receive medical treatment, and begin recovery. Unlike concerns with our physical health, such as broken bones, a mental health concern may not be treated in a timely manner and the path to recovery may not seem as straightforward.

Being able to recognise and respond appropriately to some of the common signs and symptoms of mental health conditions are a good first step in supporting ourselves and others to wellness.

Some of the signs to look out for are:

Quiet or withdrawn.

Occasionally, we all need quiet time, but withdrawing from life and people, particularly if this is a significant change, could be an indication of a mental health issue. Unwillingness to join in (especially previously enjoyed) social activities, may be a sign that a person needs additional support.

Feeling depressed or constantly unhappy

Have you noticed that the person has lost interest in things they once enjoyed? If they have also seemed sad or irritable for a month or longer, and are lacking in motivation and energy, they might be dealing with depression.

Feeling overly anxious or constantly worried

While we all get worried or stressed from time to time and it is common for most people, anxiety could be the sign of a mental health issue if it is constant and regularly affects daily living. Other symptoms of anxiety may include avoidance, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, headache, restlessness, diarrhoea, or a racing mind.

Emotional outbursts

Everyone has different moods and moods that can change from time to time, however sudden, and dramatic changes in mood, such as extreme distress or anger, can be a symptom of stress and mental illness.

Sleep problems

Generally, adults require 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Experiencing changes to a person’s sleep patterns such as sleeplessness, sleeping majority of the day or disrupted sleep could be a symptom of a mental illness.

Feeling guilty or worthless

Powerful and intrusive thoughts such as ‘I’m a failure’, ‘It’s all my fault’ or ‘I’m useless’, ‘I’m worthless’ are all possible signs of a mental health issue, such as depression. Help may be needed if a person is frequently criticising or blaming themselves and can’t balance this out with their strengths and positive qualities.

Significant weight or appetite changes

Many of us want to eat healthy or even lose a few kilos, but for some people fluctuating weight or rapid weight loss or gain could be indicative of a mental concern, such as depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder. Other mental health issues can impact appetite and weight as well.

Substance misuse/abuse

Are you worried a loved one is drinking too much? Using substances, such as alcohol or drugs as a means to cope, can be a sign of, and a contributor to, underlying mental health issues.

Changes in behaviour or feelings

Mental illness may start out with subtle changes to a person’s feelings, thinking and behaviour. Ongoing and significant changes that persist over time, could be a sign that they have or are developing a mental health issue. If something doesn’t seem ‘quite right’, it’s important to start a conversation about getting help.

How you can help

Talking to someone who you are worried about may make all the difference. You can help them feel less alone and more supported, however, clear, healthy communication can be a struggle for many of us, especially if it’s around a difficult topic. This can be even more so in the case where people are struggling with a mental health concern.  Many of us are worried that we will be judged, while others might not be sure of how to best communicate what they are feeling or experiencing.

To help the person communicate, give them plenty of time to make themselves heard and let them know that you are open to what they have to say. Remember, some people with mental health problems can feel isolated and cut off from other people, including peers, family and friends so it’s hard to trust and reach out. A simple ‘are you okay’, can start the conversation. It’s important to listen carefully and be genuine- there is no right or wrong way to ask someone if they are okay, just be yourself and do so in a way that is authentic to you.

Explain to the person why you are worried, noting things that you have noticed so that they are know that you have been paying attention to them a simple ‘I’ve noticed that you haven’t been coming out with us as much, what is going on for you’ can be helpful in pinpointing the key difference in the person’s change of mood or behaviour. Being patient is key, they might not be ready to talk about what is going on just yet, but remind them that you are there for when they are ready to talk. Look at opportunities to talk about it again later.

Once you do, try paraphrasing back what they say to show that you have understood them. Encourage and reassure them if they get upset or appear to be struggling with their emotions. Try not to minimise or dismiss their struggles or indicate that their thoughts and feelings are wrong. Don’t be judgemental of what they are saying. Be comfortable with silence and let them take the lead.

Most importantly, know that this does not need to end with you, remember that support services are available, such as OzHelp on 1300 694 357. Your GP is also a good person to reach out to for support however, if you or someone you know requires urgent support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636. In the case of an emergency, please contact 000.