You might not realize it, but someone close to you could be dealing with a mental health issue — and chances are, they haven’t said a word about it.
Even when symptoms reach the level of a clinical disorder, many people hold back from opening up. Whether it’s fear, shame, or simply not knowing where to start, this silence can lead to serious consequences. When left unaddressed, mental health struggles can chip away at a person’s well-being, affect their performance at work or school, and in some cases, lead to substance use, housing instability, or worse.
That’s why recognizing the early signs matters. Knowing what to look for can help prevent someone from slipping through the cracks — and it also gives you tools to support the people around you and keep your own mental health in check.
The American Psychiatric Association points out that early action can make a real difference — not just in easing symptoms but in minimizing the disruption to daily life. In some cases, it may even help prevent more serious mental health conditions from developing.
A lot of these signs show up early. Data shows that half of all mental health conditions start by age 14, and three-quarters show up by 24. Disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder often build gradually, showing up as small, subtle changes before things escalate.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.
Mental Health Concerns Are on the Rise
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health challenges have grown steadily—both in the U.S. and around the globe. Isolation, disconnection, and social distancing only made things worse, adding fuel to what U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has called an “epidemic of loneliness.”
Even before the pandemic hit, about 1 in 5 U.S. adults were already living with a mental illness, based on a 2023 report from the White House. The crisis only deepened from there—nearly half of all women and a third of men in the U.S. said the pandemic negatively impacted their mental well-being.
The numbers among teens are just as concerning. According to the CDC, 44% of high school students said they felt persistently sad or hopeless in the past year. In the first year of the pandemic alone, emergency room visits related to teen mental health jumped by 31%.
LGBTQ+ youth, in particular, report higher rates of emotional distress. In 2021, 69% said they felt persistently sad or hopeless—compared to 35% of their heterosexual peers. The gap highlights the need for more targeted support and accessible mental health care for vulnerable groups.
Mental Health Red Flags to Pay Attention To
When someone close to you starts acting differently, it can be hard to tell if it’s just a rough patch or something more serious. But certain behaviors stand out — and experts like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Psychological Association agree these are worth paying attention to.
For Teens:
- Big changes in sleep, eating habits, or weight
- Losing interest in things they usually care about
- Backing out of plans with close friends without saying why
- Slipping grades or school performance
- Constant worrying or thoughts they can’t shake
- Using drugs or alcohol
- Signs of self-harm — like cuts, burns, or unexplained bruises
- Suddenly spending time with a new group of friends you don’t know
- Engaging in sexual behavior that seems out of character or more intense
For Adults:
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or overall mood
- Pulling away from friends, family, or social circles
- Struggling with everyday tasks at work or home
- Trouble focusing, remembering, or thinking clearly
- Feeling easily overwhelmed or overly sensitive
- Lack of motivation or emotional flatness
- Ongoing feelings of nervousness or unease
How to Start a Conversation About Mental Health
When you notice a shift in someone’s behavior, bringing it up can feel uncomfortable, especially with friends or coworkers. You might question whether it’s your place or worry about saying the wrong thing. But you don’t need to be a mental health expert to check in. Often, showing that you care and that you’re available to talk is what matters most. Here’s how to approach it:
Make it clear you’re open to the topic.
Think of mental health the same way you would physical health — something that’s okay to talk about. You might break the ice by sharing your own experience with stress, anxiety, or burnout. Even a small comment about how you’ve been feeling can open the door for someone else to share.
Go with your gut.
If something feels off, trust that instinct. Bring it up in private, and be direct but kind. A simple “Hey, I’ve noticed you seem a little more on edge lately — how are you doing?” can go a long way.
Keep it casual.
Choose a relaxed setting where the person is likely to feel at ease. This could be over lunch, during a walk, or even through a quick message like “Everything good with you lately?”
Listen for cues.
Pay attention to how they respond. If they’re hesitant or worried about being a burden, let them know you’re here for them, no pressure. If they’re not ready to talk, offer to help them find someone they are comfortable opening up to.
Your presence counts.
You don’t need perfect words. Just showing up and checking in can make a difference. That small step might help them feel less alone and more likely to reach out in the future.
When to Encourage Professional Help
Checking in is important, but in some cases, a conversation isn’t enough. If someone’s symptoms are lasting more than a couple of weeks, getting worse over time, or affecting their ability to function day-to-day, it may be time to suggest professional support.
Encourage them to talk to a doctor, therapist, or counselor. If they seem hesitant, offer to help research local providers or walk through the steps together. Reassure them that seeking help is a sign of strength — not weakness — and that they don’t have to figure everything out on their own.
If you’re worried that someone you’re close to might hurt themselves or others, don’t ignore it. When a relationship feels off, or you notice serious changes, it’s okay to step in. Call a crisis line, loop in a trusted family member, or contact emergency services if needed. It’s always better to act than to miss a serious warning sign.
How to Support Someone Long-Term
Mental health isn’t always a one-time conversation. Ongoing support can make a big difference, especially if someone is navigating a long-term condition like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder.
Start by checking in regularly — even a short message shows that you’re thinking of them. Ask what kind of support they find helpful. Some people want to talk, others might just want company or someone to hang out with quietly.
You can also help by keeping things normal. Invite them to regular activities, include them in group plans, and avoid treating them like they’re fragile or broken. Consistency, patience, and empathy go a long way in helping someone feel grounded and connected.
Final Thoughts
Mental health issues aren’t always easy to spot — and they’re even harder to talk about. But paying attention to early warning signs can make a real difference. Whether it’s a teen pulling back from friends or an adult struggling to get through the day, these shifts often signal that someone needs support. You don’t have to have all the answers — just being present, starting the conversation, and knowing when to suggest professional help can open the door to real change. And remember, mental health isn’t a one-time check-in. Long-term support, consistency, and compassion go a long way in helping someone feel seen and supported. Staying aware and engaged doesn’t just help others — it also strengthens your own mental wellness and the well-being of your community.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.
FAQs
- What early signs should I look for in someone struggling with mental health?
Look for sudden mood swings, social withdrawal, sleep issues, low energy, or changes in appetite and interest in daily activities. - How do I know if it’s just stress or something more serious?
Pay attention to how long the feelings last. If someone feels anxious, down, or overwhelmed for more than a couple of weeks and it impacts their daily life, it’s likely more than stress. - What behaviors in teens signal a mental health concern?
Watch if they start skipping school, stop hanging out with friends, use substances, show signs of self-harm, or take part in risky or out-of-character behavior. - When should someone get professional help for mental health?
Encourage them to see a mental health professional if their symptoms last more than a few weeks, keep getting worse, or affect their ability to function day to day. - How can I support someone showing mental health red flags?
Start a conversation. Let them know you’re there, listen without judgment, and offer to help them find a therapist or talk to someone they trust.
