Recognizing the Warning Signs of Mental Illness
In adults:
- Confused Thinking
- Prolonged Depression (Sadness or Irritability)
- Feelings of Extreme Highs and Lows
- Excessive Fears, Worries and Anxieties
- Social Withdrawal
- Dramatic Changes in Eating or Sleeping Habits
- Strong Feelings of Anger
- Delusions or Hallucinations
- Growing Inability to Cope with Daily Problems and Activities
- Suicidal Thoughts
- Denial of Obvious Problems
- Numerous Unexplained Physical Ailments
- Substance Abuse
In older children and pre-adolescents:
- Substance Abuse
- Inability to Cope with Problems and Daily Activities
- Change in Sleeping and/or Eating Habits
- Excessive Complaints of Physical Ailments
- Defiance of Authority, Truancy, Theft, and/or Vandalism
- Intense Fear of Weight Gain
- Prolonged Negative Mood
- Frequent Outbursts of Anger
In younger children:
- Changes in School Performance
- Poor Grades Despite Strong Efforts
- Excessive Worry or Anxiety
- Hyperactivity
- Persistent Nightmares
- Persistent Disobedience or Aggression
- Frequent Temper Tantrums
Recognizing the Signs of Teen Drug Use
Because adolescence is a time of growth and experimentation, use of alcohol, cigarettes and other drugs among this population is a major concern for parents. Left unrecognized, substance use will, in many cases, get worse. Early recognition and response, therefore, are essential in helping parents and other caregivers respond to adolescents who may be engaging in drug or alcohol use.
Signs of adolescent drug and alcohol use may include:
- Skipping School and/or Declining Academic Performance
- Avoidance and Distancing
- Uncooperative and Frequently Breaks Curfews
- Being Secretive About New Friends or Activities
- Eating or Sleeping Patterns Have Changed
- Has a Hard Time Concentrating
- Using Incense and Room Deodorizers to Hide Smoke or Odors
- Starting to Use Mouthwash or Breath Mints to Cover Up the Smell of Cigarettes or Alcohol
- Lacking Energy and Loss of Interest in Hobbies, Sports and Favorite Activities
- Lacking concern about personal well-being/hygiene
- An Increase in Borrowing Money or Missing Money
- Evidence of Drug Paraphernalia, Such as Pipes, Rolling Paper, Lighters and Inhaling Products