Problems At Work. You may also avoid projects that require public speaking, such as work presentations.
Paranoia. You worry that in a crowded room people are looking at you or talking about you.
Signs of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is on the extreme end of the anxiety spectrum.
“People with OCD are so anxious, they have intrusive thoughts that are irrational, and they can’t get the thoughts out of their head. So what they do is develop behaviors to cope with the anxiety,” says RachBeisel. These behaviors or rituals may be so time-consuming that you can’t get to work, or anywhere, on time, and may even prevent you from working.
For example, you may:
- Wash your hands 20 to 30 times a day or spend hours bathing.
- Count 15 cars before you can park.
- Spend hours checking the door and window locks before going to bed.
- Repeat work tasks multiple times to make sure they are perfect.
Signs of Bipolar Disorder
“A person with bipolar disorder is someone who has severe mood swings,” says RachBeisel. During the depressed phase, the signs of clinical depression appear, but people with bipolar disorder also experience a manic phase during which they may have a lot of energy and positive feelings about themselves. Signs of mania are:
Mood Swings. Examples are elevated mood or extreme irritability. An overly high estimation of themselves leads to commitments they can’t possibly keep, such as taking on jobs they don’t have the skills to do.
Fast Speech. “You can’t get a word in edgewise and you have to ask them to slow down,” says RachBeisel.
No Need For Sleep. People with pipolar disorder may stay up all night for many days cleaning, painting walls, or doing laundry.
Excessive behaviors. Charging tens of thousands of dollars or having sex with casual acquaintances are just two examples.
How to Get Help For A Mental Illness
If you suspect that you have signs of one of these mental health conditions, RachBeisel advises that you:
1. Call your primary care doctor. Ask for a referral for a specialist evaluation.
2. Call a local suicide hotline if you are experiencing severe symptoms.
3. Contact your local health department for a list of mental health services.
By knowing the signs of these common mental health conditions, you’ll be better equipped to recognize when you, or someone you love, may need professional help.