According to Mental Health America, more and more Americans are suffering due to increasing economic troubles piled on to the stress of work and family demands. In fact, 58 percent of Americans reported struggling in their lives at the end of 2008, according to the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. This represents an increase of more than 22 million Americans who reported struggling earlier in the year.During these difficult times, the JFS Counseling Center is seeing an increased number of clients as well. Throughout the month of May, we will share some tips on various topics relating to mental health brought to you by our therapists.
Many people do not know when it is appropriate to seek professional help for symptoms relating to mental illnesses. Below are some common symptoms associated with depression, bipolar disorder, and psychoses:
Depression
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Lethargy, fatigue
- Loss of interest in normal activities
- Irritability
- Sudden change in appetite
- Sleep disruption
- Difficulty thinking or concentrating
- Thoughts of suicide or death
Bipolar Disorder
- Restlessness, extremely high energy
- Racing thoughts, rapid talking
- Decreased need for sleep
- Euphoria
- Distractibility, agitation
- Grandiosity
- Increased sexual drive
- Uncharacteristically poor judgment
- Abuse of alcohol, drugs, and/or sleeping pills
Psychoses
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Disorganized speech
- Irritational or catatonic behavior
- Stupor, rigidity, or floppiness of limbs
- Social withdrawl
- Lack of drive or initiative
- Emotional unresponsiveness
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, there is confidential help for you or a loved one. Call the JFS Counseling Center at (303) 597.7777. The Counseling Center offers services on a sliding-fee scale and accepts most insurance plans, Medicare, and Medicaid.
--Kari Alpen and Alaina Green, JFS Marketing Department
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