With mental health being a focus point for many individuals, it’s also important to recognize symptoms of any illnesses.

Senior Life Solutions Program Director Dianne Allsup says that many people may react differently when they are suffering from mental health issues, but that there are some common symptoms. She tells Raccoon Valley Radio a few of these symptoms.

“So these are some of the ways. There are obviously other ways too, but if you see somebody that’s having changes in sleep or eating patterns, whether that’s increased or decreased, somebody that’s expressing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, helplessness, or wanting to just give up. Frequent trips to the doctor or emergency department for unexplained illnesses that, you know, some of those illnesses that they never can find a reason for.”

Allsup mentions that some other symptoms that can be shown are frequent yelling and fighting with family or friends, little to no energy, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, mood swings and unexplained aches and pains. She adds that some may also see an inability to perform daily tasks like basic hygiene, missing appointments or not cleaning up after themselves.