Health Tip: Warning Signs of Mental Illness
Everyone has an off day, when they don't quite feel themselves or struggle with certain issues.
But when those issues take over most every aspect of your life, it may be time to enlist the help of a psychiatrist, the American Psychiatric Association says.
The Association offers this list of symptoms that may signal a need to be evaluated by a professional:
- Feeling anxious all the time, or fearing things that you know are irrational.
- Persistent feelings of sadness or depression.
- Significant mood swings or differences in your personality.
- Finding it hard to deal with daily issues and responsibilities.
- Experiencing delusions or unusual thoughts.
- Significant changes in your eating and sleeping habits.
- Turning to drugs or alcohol for relief.
- Feeling very angry or behaving violently.
- Thoughts of suicide. If you have them, seek immediate help.
Health Tip: Traumatic Events May Affect Sleep
If you've been traumatized by an act of violence, a car accident, or the death of a loved one, the repercussions can affect your daily life, including your sleep.
The National Sleep Foundation describes how a traumatic event can cause sleep disturbances, and offers suggestions to help you sleep better:
- Problems falling asleep can result from anxiety, recurring thoughts of the trauma, feeling that you "can't let your guard down," and flashbacks.
- Nightfall and darkness may increase anxiety.
- Nightmares may be common, causing you to awaken and making it difficult to fall asleep again.
- To sleep better, pick a spot where you feel safe and comfortable. It doesn't necessarily have to be your bedroom.
- Don't eat or drink much right before bedtime.
- Take time to relax before bed. Let go of your anxieties, listen to music, read, or take a bath to help you feel calm and relaxed.
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