Early Warning Signs Of Mental Illness

Warning Signs Of Mental Illness In Older Children And Adolescents

As children age, they may begin to display different symptoms as they deal with a mental illness. The most common include substance abuse at a young age, outbursts, intense fear, changes in sleeping and eating habits, defiance of authority, and display an inability to manage responsibilities.

When children begin to reach adolescence they may begin to show the previous symptoms as well as some others, including social withdrawal, depression, confusion, excessive fears, anxiety, anger, delusions, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts. If any of the severe symptoms are present, individuals should seek help from a mental health professional immediately.

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A Drastic Change In One’s Sense Of Self

A stable personality indicates healthy thought processes, emotions, and behaviors, as well as a strong sense of self and one’s place in the world. When a person experiences a drastic change in their sense of self, a fundamental change in one’s identity, this could be an early sign of mental illness. Gradual changes in personality throughout an individual's lifetime may be a natural experience as they undergo new life-altering experiences, but for a healthy individual, a strong sense of self will remain. Potential issues arise when an individual is unable to cope with or adjust in a healthy way to the changes taking place, and they begin to lose their sense of self. A drastic change in an individual's sense of self may require professional intervention.

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