Mental health advice

Warning signs and symptoms of mental ill health

Early signs can include low mood, constant worry, sleeping badly, pulling away from people, or big changes in eating or behaviour. One sign on its own is not a diagnosis, but if several last for more than a couple of weeks, it is time to talk to someone.

Spot the signs

Common early warning signs

Everyone is different, and some of these can be normal reactions to life changes, medication or physical illness. Watch for sudden changes, or signs that build up over time.

Mood and feelings

Feeling very sad, down or empty
Excessive worry or fear
Extreme mood swings, from very low to unusually high
Strong irritability or anger

Thinking

Difficulty concentrating
Confused thoughts
Not knowing what is real, such as hearing or believing things that are not happening
Thoughts of suicide

Behaviour

Withdrawing from friends or activities you usually enjoy
Using more alcohol or drugs
An obsession with weight or appearance

Physical

Sleeping badly or feeling exhausted
Eating much less or much more than usual
Changes in sex drive

Knowing when to act

When is it time to get help?

Talk to someone if signs last more than two weeks, are getting worse, or are affecting your work, relationships or daily life. You do not need to wait until things feel serious. Getting support early makes a real difference.

At least one in three people experience mental ill health at some point. It is nothing to be ashamed of.

Want to talk to someone?

Our free drop-in support in Inverness and Wick needs no referral and no appointment. Everyone on our team has lived experience.

Local support

Getting help in the Highlands

Talk to someone who gets it

Our drop-in support in Inverness and Wick is free, with no referral or appointment. Our peer supporters have lived experience of mental ill health or addiction.

Your GP

Your GP can assess your symptoms, suggest treatment and refer you to specialist services if needed.

Support over time

If you need ongoing help, we offer support at home, private care and residential recovery.

Urgent and out of hours help

Helplines and listening services

Emergency: 999
NHS 24: 111, if you are distressed, in despair or feeling suicidal
Samaritans: 116 123, 24 hours a day
Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87
CALM: 0800 58 58 58, or use their webchat
Papyrus HOPELINEUK: 0800 068 4141, for under 35s
Switchboard LGBT+: 0800 0119 100

Students can check whether their university or college offers a Nightline listening service. Mind keeps a library of trusted mental health apps.

Want to talk to someone?

Drop in to our free support in Inverness or Wick. No referral, no appointment, no cost.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

What are the first signs of a mental health problem?

Common early signs include feeling low or anxious most of the time, sleeping badly, withdrawing from people and changes in eating. Sudden changes in behaviour are worth paying attention to.

How do I know if it is serious?

If signs last more than two weeks, are getting worse or are stopping you doing everyday things, talk to someone. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.

What should I do if I notice signs in someone else?

Find a quiet moment, ask how they are and listen. Read our advice for family and friends.

Do I need a referral to get support?

Not for our drop-in support. Just walk in during opening hours.

Keep reading

More mental health advice

Mental health conditions

Plain-English guides to common conditions and treatments.

A to Z of mental health

What common mental health words and terms mean.

Facts and figures

Mental health statistics for Scotland and the Highlands.

Worried about someone?

How to help a friend or family member who is struggling.