Unlike physical ailments that manifest themselves through pain and injuries, mental health issues can be far less visible and difficult to diagnose.
During the Covid-19 global pandemic and resulting recession, studies have shown that mental health issues have risen drastically. Contributing factors such as the loss of employment, difficulty finding childcare, and loneliness were triggers associated with causing mental health issues during the pandemic. Alcohol and drugs are also on the rise.
Fortunately, mental health service providers have evolved during the Covid-19 pandemic, to offer telemedicine to patients suffering from mental health issues. Telemedicine allows physicians to diagnose and treat their patients remotely by using telecommunication technology. Individuals with mental health issues are often concerned about the stigma associated with having mental health issues. They worry about the ramifications it might have if someone found out. Luckily those concerns can be alleviated when the patient meets with the physician in the comfort and privacy of their own home.
Whether a patient is ready to meet with a physician in person or remotely, they have likely experienced trauma and have noticed changes within themselves that raise concerns. While mental health issues may manifest in various ways, below is a list of some signs that may indicate that a person may need mental health help:
- Feels withdrawn and lacks interest in activities;
- Mood swings and change in normal behaviors;
- Unable to sleep or restless;
- Using alcohol and drugs to cope with issues;
- Unable to focus or concentrate;
- Anger and capacity for violence;
- Not able to handle stress;
- Hallucinations;
- Having panic attacks;
- Low energy levels.
Being aware of the conduct and behaviors listed above can help patients and prospective mental health patients by giving them a starting point to help identify problems in their life that brought on the need for mental health help. Mental health physicians can then work with the patient to recognize the signs and help them respond to the root issues, and target treatments to have the most success.
Individuals who are suffering from and finding it difficult to cope with mental health issues should be pleased to know that in most cases, mental health patients are 1. diagnosed 2. treated 3. the patient goes on to lead a happy and productive life.
