Identifying Mental Illness

What is the first step in developing a treatment plan for mental illness?

Which manual is primarily used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental illnesses?

Why is there no medical test for diagnosing mental illness?

What is a significant aspect to consider for effective mental health treatment?

What treatment options can be part of a plan for mental illness?

Which of the following is NOT commonly considered a sign of mental illness in adults and adolescents?

What is anosognosia?

What is a common symptom of mental illness related to social behavior?

Which of the following could indicate changes in a child's mental health?

What mental health symptom may be indicated by someone thinking about suicide?

Which of the following is a potential sign of mental illness relating to physical health?

What is one way to seek help for mental health issues?

Which symptom might indicate a serious mental health concern regarding perception?

Identifying Mental Illness

Distinguishing expected behaviors from mental illness symptoms is challenging, as there's no single test.
Each mental illness presents unique symptoms, but common signs include:

Common Mental Illness Signs (Adults & Adolescents)

Excessive worry or fear
Persistent sadness or low mood
Confused thinking, concentration problems
Extreme mood swings (euphoria to uncontrollable lows)
Prolonged irritability or anger
Social withdrawal
Difficulty relating to others
Sleep or energy changes
Appetite or sex drive fluctuations
Difficulty differentiating reality (delusions, hallucinations)
Lack of insight (anosognosia)
Substance abuse
Unexplained physical ailments
Suicidal thoughts
Inability to manage daily activities

Mental Illness in Children

Common symptoms in children are often behavioral changes due to developmental stages.
Changes in school performance
Excessive worry/anxiety (e.g., resisting bed or school)
Hyperactivity
Frequent nightmares
Disobedience or aggression
Frequent temper tantrums

Seeking Help

Reach out to health insurance, doctors, or mental health authorities if needed.
Contact NAMI HelpLine for community resources.
For immediate help, use 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988).

Diagnosis Process

Mental illness diagnosis isn't based on a medical test.
A mental health professional uses the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria.
The DSM outlines criteria regarding feelings, behaviors, and duration for a formal diagnosis.

Treatment Options

After diagnosis, a treatment plan is developed—often involving medication, therapy, or lifestyle changes.
Treatments vary based on the diagnosis and individual preferences.
Treatment methods may include counseling, medication, social support, and education.

Test your knowledge on the signs and symptoms of mental illness in both adults and children. This quiz covers various mental health indicators, helping you distinguish between expected behaviors and potential mental health issues. Understand common symptoms and behavioral changes across different age groups.