Everyone experiences challenges differently, and understanding what you’re feeling can be an important first step toward caring for your mental health. Stress, anxiety and depression can affect people in different ways, and it’s not always easy to recognize when everyday stress may be turning into something more.
Stress is often tied to a specific situation or challenge and may cause feelings of pressure, irritability or trouble sleeping. Anxiety can involve ongoing worry or fear that feels difficult to control, even when there’s no immediate cause. Depression may include persistent sadness, hopelessness, low energy or loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
Signs it might be time to reach out
If you’ve been feeling “off,” it may be time to pause and check in with yourself. You may benefit from extra support if you are:
- Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or constantly stressed
- Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Losing interest in things you usually enjoy
- Feeling unusually tired or low on energy
- Having difficulty concentrating
- Withdrawing from friends or family
- Experiencing changes in appetite or mood
Support is available
You don’t have to wait until things feel unmanageable to reach out for help. Talking to someone you trust or connecting with your healthcare provider can be an important first step.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text the 988 Lifeline for 24/7, free and confidential emotional support.