Knowing what to look for
A key to helping yourself and others to better manage any mental illness is to know what signs to look for and where to go for help.
The good news is that many individuals who have a mental illness are able to have very fulfilling and rewarding lives when the symptoms of their illness are correctly diagnosed and managed. Ironically these individuals can have higher levels of well being than others who do not have a mental illness because they routinely practice behaviours that enhance their health.
Located in this section, you will find information on symptems and common disorders, with a range of resources for you to use. If you would like to translate this website into other langugages, click here to access Google Translate.
It is strongly recommended that professional help be sought if there is a concern that someone has a mental illness.
Some general signs or thoughts that may indicate a mental illness include:
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Being agitated
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No longer talking to family and friends and generally withdrawing from others
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Becoming afraid or suspicious for no reason
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Sleeping poorly or often being awake all night
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Having difficulty concentrating
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Saying or writing things that don’t make sense
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Increasing use of alcohol and/or other drugs
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Developing strange ideas
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Hearing voices no one else can hear
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Feeling one has special powers.