The hidden signs of mental health issues you might miss

Since 1992, World Mental Health Day has been observed on October 10. Mental health issues are still often downplayed. Yet, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), a good mental state is one of the critical components of overall health.

Caring for our mental well-being often isn't prioritized. We tend to seek help only when we can no longer cope with reality. Just like physical health, ignored symptoms can worsen over time. Many symptoms can initially seem unrelated to mental health. What are the signs of mental health problems that are easy to dismiss?

An adequate amount and quality of sleep are crucial for both physical and mental functioning. Poor sleep can be an indication that we are experiencing depression or anxiety. Whether it's difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep or early morning awakenings where you can't fall back asleep, these can be signs that it's worth consulting a specialist. Conversely, frequent "oversleeping" can indicate burnout, which might develop into depression.

If we're constantly "on edge" and the trivial things easily unsettle us, it may be time to evaluate our mental well-being. This is especially relevant for men, who often lack societal permission to express sadness or uncertainty. "Explosiveness" can mask both depression and anxiety. Both disorders can make it challenging to regulate thoughts and emotions.

Lack of energy and motivation is often mistaken for "character flaws." We criticize ourselves, and others may judge us similarly. However, difficulty in "managing things" can be a symptom of both depression and ADHD. If a lack of strength and willingness to face reality has appeared and refuses to go away, it's worthwhile to get assessed for depression. Meanwhile, chronic procrastination, waiting until the last minute, and rushing to meet deadlines may suggest ADHD.

Perfectionists may be valued at work, but placing excessively high demands on themselves can be problematic. Excessive perfectionism is common among those with anxiety disorders and eating disorders. If your standards are so high that you never feel satisfied or fulfilled, it might be a sign you need help.

Therapists and psychiatrists in Poland note that patients often come to them after visiting other doctors. Many physical symptoms that have no physical explanation may have a psychological origin. Contrary to popular belief, our body and mind are a single, closely entwined entity, not separate. Common psychosomatic symptoms include headaches, stomachaches, dizziness, and excessive sweating.

It's important to remember that all these symptoms can also be perfectly healthy reactions to certain events. There's nothing unusual about feeling temporarily discouraged when something doesn't go our way or getting angry when mistreated. We are entitled to feel exhausted for a while after a challenging study session or demanding work project. It's worth seeking help when difficult emotions arise "without a clear reason" or persist over time. Healthy emotions "flow"—they come and go, responding appropriately to our circumstances.