As a country are we facing a nationwide mental meltdown? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 26% of American adults are currently suffering from mental health disorders with 18% from conditions that are rooted in anxiety. As a family member or friend, you may be the one most likely to recognize when someone you know is approaching a mental crisis. The vast majority of people are silent sufferers which can make the cry for help difficult to identify.
Here are tips on warning signs and how to take action and respond to troubling behavior that can lead to a mental meltdown:
Depression - Loss of interest - Negative viewpoint - Aggressive criticisms- Difficulty concentrating
Lack of concern for safety - Risky behavior - Thoughts of suicide or violent daydreams
Major change in eating patterns - dramatic weight loss or gain
Stressed and extremely anxious - Increased blood pressure - Trembling or shaking - Dizziness - Upset stomach - Panic attacks - Difficulty breathing
Lack of sleep that is on-going for several days
Mood swings that are unexplained - Increased irritability
Hallucinations - Paranoia - Delusions - Flashback of past traumatic events
Neglected appearance - unable to get out of bed, bathe or dress
Substance abuse
Social withdraw - Isolation - Fear and detachment
By definition a mental health crisis is an event in which a person has reached his or her limit and can't cope or function normally or effectively in day to day life. Getting your loved one to seek help is the first step but this can be difficult to accomplish. If there is imminent danger call 911 immediately. If the symptoms are not suicidal or life threating discuss voluntary hospitalization. Involuntary hospitalization is an option of last resort but necessary when the person facing the meltdown can no longer make healthy decisions on their own. Some of the above symptoms can indicate a brain seizure or other medical conditions that needs treatment. Drive or take a taxi to the closest ER for a diagnosis and treatment plan. Your goal is to stabilize and get your friend or loved one professional help as quickly as possible.
If the challenges of family and career are making life overwhelming and difficult to care for a loved one in need of assistance, we can help. Today’s families have very busy lifestyles so many times family members want to help and in many cases try to help but generally it is only a matter of time before it all becomes overwhelming trying to juggle too many tasks at one time. For most just knowing that companies like ours are here when you need support and an extra set of caring hands make the process less stressful and smooth.
Should a loved one need help, call us today 770-442-8664!
Easy Living Services, Inc.
Providing Home Care to Atlanta families since 1994