It goes without saying that you want the best for your family. But let’s be honest, life can get hectic. You may look back on this past month, unable to pinpoint when you and your family last had quality time.
For one thing, Jared Jeffrey Davis says you’re missing out on making memories. Taking this thought a step further, it can be easily argued that stressful lifestyles, and other factors, result in (according to some studies) 25% of us have unchecked mental health challenges. That being said, it’s imperative that families take care to watch out for one another.
So while it’s true that few of us are experts in this field, it is also true that picking up simple warning signs can be the difference between ignoring a potential crisis, and getting critical help before a situation turns into one.
All that said, Jared Jeffrey Davis would like to share a few valuable tips regarding warning signs of developing mental health challenges, and what to do about them.
What Is The General Mood?
While everyone has bad days, it always a great idea to watch those who showcase a depressive mood, and/or irritability more often than not. And If someone frequently mentions suicide, even as a joke, make certain not to take as one. Also, be sensitive to how often moods change. If someone fluctuates between extremely bad and then very good moods, it could be a sign that it’s time to see a professional.
What Has Changed?
Jared Jeffrey Davis says every family is different. Some individuals do not easily express emotions. And certain children may simply prefer writing their thoughts in diaries, as opposed to discussing them at the dinner table. But you can identify possible problems without asking questions that create a feeling of vulnerability
Simply ask this question: what is different than a few months ago?
Especially with children, changes in the following areas of their lives could be the result of depression, and/or other mental health challenges:
- School: A drop in marks and performance
- Health: Suddenly losing weight or having more physical ailments
- Behavior: Abusing alcohol
- Sleep: Not being able to sleep, or sleeping too much
Think Age Appropriate
You need to adjust parameters the reflect a child’s age. Substance abuse and negative moods may be clear indicators with teens. But when considering a young child, warning signs are mostly different. ie nightmares, extreme anxiety, throwing tantrums, or becoming extremely aggressive.
Is Something Affecting Daily Activities?
Jared Jeffrey Davis says another approach to considering your loved ones’ state of mind is to determine how well they’re faring in their day to day tasks. Is your spouse or child battling to complete seemingly simple tasks? Or, if someone who used to love hanging out with friends doesn’t want to meet up with them anymore, it’s possible there’s an underlying problem.
See, it’s not that difficult to gauge someone else’s state of mind, even if you have a busy schedule, says Jared Jeffrey Davis.
Educate Yourself About Family Mental Health And Take Action
Educate yourself, and your family about mental health like Jared J Davis. In the coming months, try your best to be vigilant, and to take action when and if you feel there’s reason for concern. Do it before one of your loved ones find themselves on the brink of a breakdown.
