Warning signs from the mental health system

Overview

Warning signs from the mental health system are signals that your mental health may be getting worse or that the care you are receiving is not working well for you. Noticing these signs early can help you get the right support before a crisis happens.

It is very common for people with mental health conditions to experience times when their symptoms get worse or when their care plan no longer fits their needs.

Anyone receiving mental health support—whether for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or other conditions—can experience these warning signs. They affect people of all ages and backgrounds.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling more anxious, sad, or irritable than usual
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Feeling hopeless or worthless
• Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
• Having more negative or scary thoughts than usual
• Finding it hard to concentrate or make decisions
• Feeling that your current treatment (medication, therapy, or support) is not helping
• Missing appointments or stopping treatment without talking to your care team

Symptoms in children

• Changes in behaviour, such as acting out or being very quiet
• Falling behind in school or avoiding school
• Complaints of stomach aches or headaches with no clear cause
• More temper tantrums or clinging to parents
• Talking about fears or worries more than usual

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or memory problems that seem new or worse
• Loss of interest in hobbies or socialising
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Irritability or agitation
• Not taking prescribed medications as directed
• Physical complaints like pain or fatigue without a clear medical reason

Causes

Main causes

• A natural worsening of an existing mental health condition (such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia)
• Stressful life events like loss, relationship problems, financial trouble, or trauma
• Stopping or changing medication without medical advice
• Not enough support from mental health services (long waiting times, cancelled appointments, or poor communication)
• Physical illness, pain, or other medical problems that affect your mental health

Risk factors

• Having a previous history of severe mental health episodes
• Lack of a strong support network (family, friends, or community)
• Substance use, including alcohol or recreational drugs
• Ongoing stress from work, school, or finances
• Living alone or in an unstable housing situation
• Not having a consistent healthcare provider or care plan

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life
• If you are hearing voices that tell you to hurt yourself or others
• If you feel completely overwhelmed and cannot keep yourself safe
• If you have taken too much medication or any other substance deliberately

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice your mood or energy levels are getting worse over a few weeks
• If your sleep or appetite has changed significantly
• If you are finding it harder to do daily activities
• If your current treatment (therapy or medication) does not seem to be working
• If you experience side effects from medication that bother you

Diagnosis

There is no single test for mental health warning signs. A doctor or mental health professional will talk with you about how you are feeling, your symptoms, and what has changed. They may ask about your personal and family history and use a questionnaire to better understand your situation.

Tests that may be done

• A conversation with your GP or psychiatrist about your symptoms and history
• Sometimes a physical exam or blood tests to rule out other medical causes (for example, thyroid problems or vitamin deficiencies)
• Standardised questionnaires for depression, anxiety, or other conditions

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment may last 20 to 30 minutes. Be honest about what you are experiencing, even if it feels difficult. The doctor will work with you to understand what is happening and discuss next steps. They may adjust your treatment plan or refer you to a specialist.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what is causing the warning signs. Often, it involves adjusting your current care plan—for example, changing the type or amount of medication, increasing therapy sessions, adding new kinds of support, or addressing stress in your life. The goal is to help you feel stable and safe again.

Self-care at home

• Keep a mood journal to track changes and share with your care team
• Stick to a daily routine for sleep, meals, and activities
• Talk to a trusted friend or family member about how you are feeling
• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, which can make symptoms worse
• Practice deep breathing or mindfulness when you feel overwhelmed

Medical treatments

Medical treatments may include adjustments to antidepressants, mood stabilisers, or antipsychotic medications. Therapy (such as cognitive behavioural therapy or counselling) is also common. In some cases, a brief hospital stay may be recommended to provide a safe space and intensive support. Your doctor will discuss the best options for your specific situation. No specific drug names or doses are mentioned here.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat mental health conditions or their warning signs.

Living with this condition

Living with a mental health condition means being aware of your warning signs and having a plan to respond. That plan might include who to call when things get tough, what helps you calm down, and how to get support quickly. It is about taking one day at a time and being kind to yourself.

Lifestyle tips

• Set small, achievable goals each day
• Stay connected with people who understand and support you
• Limit time on social media if it makes you feel worse
• Make time for hobbies and activities you enjoy, even if only for a few minutes

Diet and exercise

Eating regular, balanced meals can help stabilise your mood. Aim for foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Gentle exercise, such as walking or stretching for 15–20 minutes a day, can reduce stress and improve sleep. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

When warning signs appear, it can feel frightening or discouraging. You may worry that you are getting worse or that treatment will not work. It is important to remember that these signs are a signal to seek help, not a failure. Many people experience setbacks and still recover fully.

Prevention

It may not always be possible to prevent warning signs from appearing, but you can reduce the chance of a crisis by staying engaged with your treatment, managing stress, and keeping a close watch on your own mental health. Early action is the best prevention.

Screening programmes

Some GP practices offer regular check-ins for people with long-term mental health conditions. You can ask your doctor about scheduled appointments to review your progress, even when you feel well.

Complications

If left untreated

• A mental health crisis that may require emergency hospital care
• Severe depression or anxiety that affects your ability to work, study, or care for yourself
• Self-harm or suicide attempts
• Strained relationships with family and friends
• Physical health problems from poor self-care or substance use

Long-term outlook

With the right support and timely care, most people who notice warning signs can prevent a full crisis and return to a stable, fulfilling life. Recovery is a journey, and setbacks can be managed. There is always hope, and help is available.

Find support

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