Mental health problems affect up to 20% of the U.S. adult population.
One of the most common problems is Depression, a mood disorder that causes very negative thoughts and feelings and can interfere with your ability to function in important areas of your life.
Symptoms of Depression include depressed mood (sad and hopeless feelings), lack of interest or pleasure in activities, lack of appetite or increased appetite with weight change, insomnia or sleeping too much, feeling tired, problems concentrating, feeling guilty or worthless, and thoughts of death or suicide. Although Depression is a very serious illness, it does get better with treatment. An important first step is seeking professional counseling.
Untreated depression can lead to suicide. Warning signs that someone may be suicidal are talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself, talking about feeling hopeless or feeling like a burden to others, looking for ways to kill oneself, reporting experiencing unbearable pain, increased use of alcohol/drugs, acting very anxious or agitated, problems sleeping, rage or mood swings, withdrawing from family/friends. (Risk is greater if someone has a history of suicide attempts or has recently experienced a painful event or sudden change in life.)
If you are with someone who is suicidal, believe them and support them in getting help; make sure no weapons are available; don’t leave them alone; and take them to an ER or local mental health crisis center. Call 911 if there is an immediate threat of harm.