How are you?

Let’s face it: Life can be stressful.

We all have tough days, and sometimes they become tough weeks, months or even years. Yet when it comes to being honest about how we’re feeling, we often shrug off inquiries with a quick “I’m fine,” “all right” or “OK.” If we answered more honestly — admitting we’re overtired, struggling to balance it all or simply not feeling our best — could we help others do the same? Could we make talking about and finding support for mental health easier?

October 10th is World Mental Health Day

Are you or someone you know suffering in silence?

Destigmatize mental health by connecting with the help you or others need Close to one billion people globally live with mental health disorders. The stigma associated with mental health conditions causes many people to stay quiet about what they’re really experiencing — and not seek treatment. They might perceive themselves to be “weak,” feel ashamed, or tell themselves it’s “just a phase” that’ll pass if they push through. They might worry about being treated differently or losing their jobs. Or, they just might not know where to begin finding help. There’s a stigma associated with mental health issues, and it’s understandable if you or someone you know suffer in silence as a result. But by getting the help you need or encouraging a loved one to do the same, you take the first steps in destigmatizing it.

Learn the signs

While different mental health conditions have different symptoms, with variances depending on the person, early warning signs include behavior changes over time that last for two or more weeks. For example, a previously energetic, reliable colleague now consistently seems fatigued, shows up late, and looks disheveled. They also seem angry, irritable, and prone to outbursts.

Some common signs of mental illness include:

1 Excessive worrying or fear

2 Persistent sadness, “empty” feeling or hopelessness

3 Lack of concentration

4 Extreme mood changes, including irritability or anger

5 Changes in eating habits, energy level or sleeping patterns

6 Delusions and/or hallucinations

7 Increased use of alcohol or other substances

8 Persistent physical aches and pains

9 Suicidal thoughts

10 Lack of interest in activities

11 Inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress

12 Intense fear of weight gain or concern with appearance

Be an ally

It’s on all of us to help create a supportive environment, increasing awareness and reducing stigma for those who may be living with a mental illness. The first step in destigmatizing mental health is in how you talk about it. Use language that’s respectful and compassionate, and correct those who don’t. Crass language doesn’t help anyone, delegitimizes mental health issues themselves, and could discourage people from getting treatment — and that might end up affecting you, too. You can make a difference, both to yourself and others.

Reach out

If someone you know has been showing signs of a mental health issue for two or more weeks, find a quiet place to ask them if they’re OK, then follow the NOTICE. TALK. ACT.™ method from the American Psychiatric Association. Be compassionate, and tell them what’s been worrying you. Listen and learn from their perspective — don’t assume you know what’s going on. Remind them we all go through challenging times, and a little support can help us get through them. Suggest they get in touch with a behavioral health professional — even offer to help them connect with one. Then, in a couple of days, check back in with them. Remember, though, if you are worried about the person’s immediate safety, do not leave the person alone. Seek emergency assistance. Equally as important: If somebody is concerned about you, you have to be as honest with them as you’d expect them to be with you. Honesty is how healing begins. So don’t let a loved one — or yourself — suffer in silence.

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This article was provided by Optum, Inc.