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Common Symptoms of Mental Health Disorders

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By Editorial Team

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: September 2023

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Just like our bodies can get sick, our minds can face challenges too. Mental health disorders are more common than you might think. It is essential to understand their symptoms, know that they can be managed, and seek help.1,2

Recognizing the signs

There are many types of mental health disorders. Each has its own set of signs and symptoms. Here are some common mental health disorders and their typical symptoms.1-3

Depression

Symptoms of depression can range depending on the person and the severity of their condition. Symptoms of depression include:1-3

  • Feeling sad or down most of the time
  • Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
  • Changes in appetite or sleep
  • Low energy or fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Physical aches and pains
  • Irritability

Anxiety

There are many anxiety disorders. Generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, and social anxiety are just a few. Each of them is unique. But generally speaking, they all share features of excessive worry and fear. Anxiety is common in both adults and children.2

Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include:1-3

  • Avoiding certain situations that cause fear or anxiety
  • Excessive worrying
  • Feeling restless
  • Racing heart
  • Sweaty palms
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Rapid breathing

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD begins in childhood. But cases may go undiagnosed because symptoms can be hard to communicate or recognize. ADHD symptoms include:1-3

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  • Being unable to sit still
  • Trouble focusing
  • Being forgetful
  • Being impulsive
  • Struggling to finish tasks
  • Difficulty starting tasks

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition in which a person alternates between periods of extreme happiness or agitation (mania) and deep sadness (depression).3

During periods of mania, symptoms can include:3

  • Increased energy or activity
  • Impulsivity
  • Irritability
  • Changes in sleep patterns (staying up all night, getting very little sleep)
  • Risky behaviors
  • Poor appetite

During periods of depression, symptoms can include:3

  • Feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness
  • Fatigue
  • Changes in weight – either weight loss or weight gain
  • Changes in sleep patterns – either more or less sleep than usual
  • Thoughts of suicide

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is one of a spectrum of similar disorders. To be diagnosed with schizophrenia, symptoms must last for at least 6 months and include at least 1 month of active-phase symptoms like hallucinations or delusions.3

Symptoms of schizophrenia include:3

  • Hallucinations – hearing or seeing things that others do not
  • Delusions – strongly believing things that are not true
  • Disorganized thinking or speech
  • Abnormal movements
  • “Negative” symptoms – for instance, lack of or reduced activities to care for yourself

Recognizing signs of mental illness in children

Mental health disorders in children can sometimes show up differently. Young kids might not know exactly how to express what they are feeling. So, it is up to the parent or caregiver to recognize signs of something more serious.4

Children might show symptoms like:4

  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Complaints of physical ailments like stomachaches or headaches
  • Decrease in school performance
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Changes in appetite
  • Being easily distracted or unable to concentrate (ADHD)
  • Fear of leaving a parent or the home (separation anxiety)
  • Fear of going to school (social anxiety)
  • Being very worried about bad things happening in the future (generalized anxiety)
  • Frequent absence from school or frequently going to the school nurse

While some of these signs and symptoms are considered “normal” for kids and teens, if they last a long time or interfere with everyday life, a mental health professional may be needed.4

Getting a diagnosis

Receiving a diagnosis for a mental health disorder involves talking to a mental health professional, like a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will ask about your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors to better understand what you are going through.1,2

Sometimes, they use questionnaires to help figure out what's happening. It's important to be open and honest during these assessments so you can get the best help possible.1,2

Exploring treatment options

Mental health treatments differ for adults and children. But the good news is that mental health disorders can be treated. Common treatment options are:2

  • Therapy
  • Medicines
  • Lifestyle changes
  • Complementary and integrative health methods
  • Emerging therapies

Reaching out for help

If you or someone you care about is struggling with their mental health, seek help. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health disorders are common, and getting the right support can make a huge difference in your life.