Common Mental Health Concerns

How do I know if I could benefit from professional mental health services?

The following is a list of questions that can help you determine whether you or someone you care about could use some professional help. All of the questions represent some important part of thinking or behavior that can be addressed through mental health/substance abuse services.

A YES answer to one or more questions may suggest that you could benefit from a mental health assessment or intervention.

Have I noticed a change in my behavior?
Do I feel more disoriented, confused or easily agitated than usual?
Do I feel strong and repeated concerns about death or dying?
Have I not been taking my medication for mental health problems as it is prescribed?
Do I find myself arguing a lot with my family and my neighbors?
Do I find myself in a bad mood more than usual?
Do I avoid being with people and feel anxious when I talk with people?
Do I feel pains and aches that don't have any medical basis?
Have I more trouble functioning in the community than in the past?
Do I find myself wandering around not sure of what I am doing or where I am going?
Have I not been eating or caring for my personal hygiene?
Am I suspicious of others, including my friends and family?
Do I find no pleasure in doing things that I used to enjoy a great deal?
Do I feel hopeless or worthless?
Do I feel more nervous and worried than usual without any reason?
Do I feel that it doesn't matter if I live or die?

Page updated: February 9, 2006.