It isn’t always easy to tell if someone is going through depression, anxiety, grief, guilt or other mental health conditions. In fact, they can sometimes be so well-hidden that people around them find it hard to believe when they learn the truth.

The telltale signs aren’t always straightforward either. However there are some common symptoms and early warning signs that could indicate a friend or family member may be struggling. Often it is not a single change, but a combination of signs, such as:
 

• Excessive worrying, fear, feeling sad or low
• Confused thinking or problems concentrating and learning
• Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger
• Avoiding friends and social activities
• Thoughts of self-harm and suicide
• Changes in sleeping and eating habits
• Physical pains like headaches and stomach aches without obvious causes
• For children, changes in school performance, hyperactive behaviours, frequent nightmares, aggression or temper tantrums

 
The symptoms above are not to help you diagnose a mental health disorder, but to reassure you there may be good reasons for further evaluation or to seek help. Spotting early signs can help individuals and families understand its significance, how it might develop and what can be done to help.