Spotting when you or someone you care about might need mental health help can be tough. But there are some emotional changes that can act like warning lights. Here are some important signs to look out for:

1. Feeling Sad for a Long Time: If you feel sad for weeks and it doesn’t get better, it might be time to get some help. For example, if you feel down even on good days, it could mean there’s a bigger problem.

2. Feeling Very Anxious: If you’re worrying or feeling scared a lot, and it makes it hard to do everyday things, talking to a professional could really help. For instance, if being in a crowd makes you feel panicky, that could be a sign of anxiety.

3. Avoiding Socializing: If you start to pull away from friends and family, that’s something to pay attention to. If you used to love hanging out with others but now want to be alone, it’s a good idea to think about those feelings.

4. Big Changes in Mood: If your emotions swing from really happy one minute to really sad the next, it might mean something deeper is going on.

5. Not Enjoying Things You Used to Love: If you stop enjoying activities that once made you happy, you might want to talk to someone. For example, if you loved painting but can’t find the energy to pick up a brush anymore, it could be a sign to reach out for help.

Noticing these signs is the first step toward taking care of your mental health and getting help when you need it.