The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a huge amount of uncertainty for all of us. Even as things slowly transition back to a new normal, you may be left with fears about the future or continued stress from the past. It’s normal to feel stressed or anxious now and then. But it's time to seek help if emotional issues last for an extended period of time and interfere with your life, your job, or your personal relationships. Mental conditions are real. They can be damaging to your health. But they're also common and very treatable. How do you know you need help? As with many physical health problems, change is the key. If you have a marked and persistent change in personality, mood, or eating or sleeping habits, that's a sign something may be going on.
Symptoms to look for:
- Feeling unable to cope with your day-to-day problems, work assignments, or usual household activities
- Being overwhelmed by a deep sense of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness
- Having extreme mood swings, from high or hyper to down in the dumps
- Withdrawing from people and normal activities
- Believing things that are not true or hearing voices that are not there
- Having thoughts or memories that you can't get out of your head
- Abusing alcohol or drugs
- Getting very angry or acting violently
- Having thoughts about suicide or hurting someone else
- Having a plan of how you would commit suicide
Make the Call
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, it's better to get treatment sooner than later. Local counselors at Southwestern Medical Clinic are here to help. Call 269.429.7727 or visit swmc.org to discuss appointment options. Get help right away any time you think you might hurt yourself or someone else. If you are in an immediate state of crisis, it is best to go to a hospital emergency room for temporary help and additional resources.