More than 43 million Americans struggle with mental health and depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.  Mental health is more common than we think and MedEZ™ wants you to recognize the signs if you experience or someone you know is struggling with an inner battle that needs medical attention.

 

Does mental disorder cause substance abuse, or does substance abuse cause mental disorder? This is a subject that has been highlighted in the mental health community and there are two sides to look at.  Some mental disorders can cause addiction while addiction can be the cause of a mental disorder. According to the American Journal of Psychiatry, people with mental disorders use drugs as a form of medication.  Clinicians also use drug therapy to treat mental disorders. Here are 4 signs that can be the cause or effect of substance abuse. 

 

Excess Mood Swings

Mood swings can be experienced by anyone but when you find yourself consistently up and down, that can be a sign of a mental health condition.  If you feel that your mood changes from extremely happy to extremely sad, this is a sign that you must seek medical attention. This change in mood can be caused by bipolar disorder, cyclothymic disorder, or personality disorder.  These disorders can ameliorate with the right medical attention. MedEZ™ encourages you to seek help if you see a decline in your mental health.

 

Long-term Sadness, Worry and Fear

If you experience long-term sadness, there is a possibility that you are experiencing depression.  Some symptoms of depression include feeling sluggish, worthless, guilty, and having a loss of interest in pleasures and hobbies.  Constant worry and fear are other signs of depression, and if you recognize that you are experiencing these symptoms more than usual, this is a sign that you should get the help you need.

 

Changes in Sleeping and Eating Habits

Mental health does not only affect your mind but can also affect your appearance.  According to the ANAD Organization, 30 million people of all ages and gender suffer from an eating disorder in the United States.  Lack of eating, or overeating can cause a physical change to the human body. Some eating disorders that people experience are anorexia, bulimia, pica, and binge eating.  MedEZ™ recognizes these signs as serious disorders that need medical attention.  Changes in your sleeping habits such as not getting enough sleep or oversleeping is also a red flag when dealing with mental health.

 

Withdrawal from Loved Ones

Distancing yourself from people you are always around for no apparent reason is a sign that you should seek mental health.  The withdrawal can happen gradually, but if you find yourself alone and distressed with everyday tasks such as going to work or school and not wanting to be around people generally, you should consider speaking to someone about this matter.  

 

Although you may not be experiencing these signs, maybe someone you know is going through something they do not feel comfortable sharing.  Checking up on your loved ones is essential, especially in these hard times. MedEZ™ wants to inform our readers on mental health topics and by sharing your knowledge on these signs to recognize that you or a loved one may need mental health, you can change someone’s life. 

Prepared by Arielle Baril for medez.com