To make sure we’re looking out for one another, Redditors have recently been sharing subtle signs of mental health struggles that often go unnoticed. Below, you’ll find some eye-opening replies that might remind you to check in with your loved ones, as well as conversations with Lau Ciocan, Founder of Mentoring Advocacy Network, and registered psychotherapist and life coach Krista Roesler from Psych Company!
#1
As Robin Williams once said:
I think the saddest people always try their hardest to make people happy because they know what it’s like to feel absolutely worthless and they don’t want anyone else to feel like that.
Image credits: sunbeamshadow
To gain more insight into this topic, Bored Panda got in touch with Lau Ciocan. Lau is a TEDx speaker and the Founder of Mentoring Advocacy Network (MAN), a platform raising awareness on men's mental health and healthy masculinities through public speaking, webinars, and The Mentality Podcast. He was nominated for the Future Leader Award, and MAN was shortlisted for the Best Men's Health Initiative by the InsideOut Awards in 2023 and 2024.
When it comes to the common signs of mental health struggles to look out for, Lau says, "It's important to bear in mind that the signs of mental health challenges might differ from person to person and we might miss them in some people who 'camouflage' or 'mask' their struggles well."
#2
During my worst depressive relapses, I would constantly ask how people were doing. If someone you know is constantly asking everyone how they’re doing/if they’re okay with little to no reason to why they ask, please ask it back. I was on the verge of s*icide many times in the past and all I could ever do was reach out, ask if someone was okay, and that I love them. I was never asked it back. It’s a miracle that I’m still here.
Image credits: Lunanymous
"The signs that might fall under the radar and need a closer look could be someone experiencing hyper-productivity, irregular sleep patterns or eating habits. However, some of the more evident signs of struggle include the overall change in behavior and personality, gradual and progressive distance from loved ones, increased levels of fatigue, or lack of motivation and enthusiasm," the expert added.
#3
They don't have the same excitement about things they used to really enjoy.
Image credits: llcucf80
As for what we should do when we notice these behaviors, Lau says it depends on the relationship one has with the person experiencing mental health challenges. "We don't know what this person is going through, so the first step one can take is to approach the situation with compassion and sensitivity and ask open questions that allow the person to open up," he shared. "And if they do, one should listen attentively and without judgment."
"I would also say that one should assess for risk of suicide or harm, and if serious contact the relevant professional services," the mental health expert added. "In parallel, one should encourage the person to get the appropriate professional help and offer assistance and support in doing so."
#4
When someone has struggled and things suddenly seem better overnight, despite there being no known reason for the change.
So you stop worrying about them. They’re better now.
You don’t realize that it’s because they made a plan.
You don’t realize that until it’s too late.
Image credits: Acrobatic_Hippo_9593
But it's important to address these concerns, because Lau says noticing the signs early on can ultimately save someone’s life. "Reaching out and offering support may prevent further struggle and increased risk of harm or even suicide," he noted. "At times, your loved one may be unaware of the impact of their poor mental health, on themselves or you. Constructively sharing your concerns may enlighten them and encourage them to seek the appropriate help."
#5
Messy/dirty house. Not all people with messy houses are mentally ill, but if the state of a friend’s house is continuously deteriorating and /or simple tasks (like throwing away cans) are left undone, it’s a big sign. Sometimes someone who is struggling will clean the fridge and wash clothes but be unable to throw away mail, or pick up trash. It’s hard to explain.
Image credits: VitaminR1000mg
"Anyone can be affected by poor mental health; we all have bad days. However, creating healthy lifestyle patterns can contribute to maintaining a positive mindset," Lau added. "Some good tips to do this include: setting time aside for self-care, like going for a walk in a park or nature, journaling or spending time on a hobby; sleeping for at least 7 hours a night; eating well, and drinking plenty of water; exercising regularly, whether it’s going to the gym or a 20-minute walk; prioritizing a balance between work and life; and always share your feelings with those you trust."
#6
Look for the guy that is constantly doing things for other people. This guy is super nice. He goes out of his way to make others happy. He is a good listener. He gives really good advice. He picks others up when they are down.
And that guy…… that guy right there…… is really….. really….. struggling.
#7
Someone who is always stressed out, on edge, and irritable is suddently calm, nonchalant, and doesn't care about c**p anymore.
Check on this person. Maybe they got a girlfriend/boyfriend or a big promotion or finished a huge project. But also - maybe they've given up and have an *exit plan* in place now.
Image credits: Saldar1234
We were also lucky enough to get in touch with registered psychotherapist and life coach Krista Roesler from Psych Company, who discussed this topic with Bored Panda as well.
"Common signs of mental health struggles that people might not be aware of or know to look for include changes in behavior, personality, or emotional expression," the expert shared. "For instance, someone who used to openly share their feelings might become more quiet and distant, while someone who was previously very excitable may become unusually calm. Similarly, a person who was kind and caring might start acting unkind, and someone who seemed sad might appear outwardly content."
#8
Somebody who's always tired. Especially for high functioning depressives, their home and workspace can be neat and tidy, their bills are paid on time and they are cordial when socializing. But they will always say they are tired. Depression exhaustion runs deep.
Image credits: curiousboopnoodle
"Other signs include emotional distancing from people and activities they once enjoyed, leading to increased isolation from others and a loss of interest in hobbies or work," Krista continued. "They might also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, body aches, or upset stomachs."
"Changes in sleeping patterns are another important indicator. Look for signs such as sleeping too much, too little, experiencing insomnia, or persistent fatigue," the expert says. "Additionally, certain risk factors can signal underlying issues, including financial problems, legal troubles, trauma, chronic pain, health issues, relationship problems, or substance abuse."
#9
Common disassociation, just seeing someone disconnect from reality white sitting at a bench or in a friend group just breaks my heart.
Image credits: PerspectivePublic546
#10
I struggle with major depression. I can answer this for myself, but as always, this won’t appear in everyone.
1. I use humor a lot. Like every conversation. It’s a quick shot of dopamine to make people laugh and it avoids talking about myself. Kills two birds with one stone. My therapist said one time after not seeing him for six months “I see you are still using humor as a way to not feel your emotions.” Haha. F**k you.
2. I am purposely vague on what I’ve been doing. Like “oh I’ve been working and hanging with the kids.” Or “nothing much just the same old s**t.” This can be easily interpreted as “I’ve been holed up in my room not showering, maybe crying, convincing myself that everyone hates me.”
3. Random outbursts of negativity. Sometimes veiled as jokes. I recently blurted out to my sister while driving “nobody has any empathy anymore!” At a driver. It made people laugh.
3. I constantly make excuses on why I can’t go somewhere. It’s usually because I’m tired, or busy with the kids, but in reality I’m avoiding having to give an update on my (distorted view) s****y little life while everyone talks how amazing everything is.
There are others but these were the first I could think of.
Edit: If anyone feels the same as this feel free to send me a message. I’ve learned that getting through it with someone can be extremely helpful. (Males preferably. I need more guy friends.).
Image credits: elmatador12
Krista noted that some other concerning signs to be aware of are: "expressing feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness; neglecting personal hygiene and abandoning healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise; being less attentive to medication schedules and failing to manage chronic health conditions, like diabetes; showing indifference toward declining performance at work or school; increasingly avoiding social situations without a clear reason; heightened use of alcohol or worsening drug abuse; engaging in reckless behaviors, such as unsafe driving; and making unusual purchases, like items that could be used for self-harm, which aren’t typically needed."
#11
At least in men, social withdrawal is often the first and largest symptom of depression. We can put up a really good facade, but if you notice one of the boys not showing up to social functions as much, and no one is hearing from him, check in on him for f***s sake.
Image credits: robertsij
#12
Having trouble getting out of bed, having low energy. Many people are quick to call it lazy but really we are struggling to have any energy to just wake up and exist in a world where life hasn't been kind.
We also asked Krista what we should do if we notice any of these concerning behaviors in loved ones. "If you're concerned someone might be suicidal, start by expressing your worry gently and directly, such as saying, 'I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling a lot lately, and I’m really worried about you,'" she told Bored Panda. "Create a safe space for them to share their feelings without judgment, and encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional."
#13
Whenever you ask them how they're doing, the answer is *always* 'ok' or 'I'm fine, just a bit tired."
Everyone has sh**tier days. Everyone will rant once in a while. But not when depressed.
You don't want to be even more of a burden than you feel you already are. You don't want to admit to yourself or to others or to both that you are actually struggling with everyday things. You don't want to always be complaining. You don't want to look like a failure. You don't believe the question is asked in earnest; why should anyone care anyway? Or you simply feel nothing, but that's not exactly an acceptable answer now, is it.
So 'ok' it is.
#14
Everything takes forever. I take hours to reply to texts, hours to get out of bed, hours to go to the store.
Image credits: meuntilfurthernotice
#15
Hygiene is a huge one, noticing they only ever have their hair up, or rumpled clothing, if they normally wear makeup and suddenly stop for no reason. People normally notice when it gets to not showering but it can be in small ways.
Image credits: Beans_0492
"If necessary, ask directly if they’re thinking about suicide—it’s important to discuss these thoughts openly. Offer practical support, like helping them find resources or accompanying them to appointments," the expert continued. "Develop a safety plan together, remove means for self-harm if possible, and maintain regular contact to combat isolation. If there’s immediate risk, contact emergency services right away. Lastly, educate yourself about mental health to better support them and ensure they get the professional help they need."
#16
Thoughtlessness, when I was in a deeeep depression and a few other smaller episodes I am under such a black cloud and demented headspace that I’ll forget birthdays, plans, leaving things out, things like that.
Image credits: Beans_0492
#17
When, without major shifts in their life, they suddenly become too busy to do things they used to attend to regularly. Such as hobbies or social appointments.
I went through a stretch of severe depression in my early twenties and did this constantly. When people asked why I wasn’t around as much, I’d just tell them I was busy. What I was busy doing was wallowing around in my apartment being absolutely miserable. An ex of mine actually caught it and convinced me to try a therapist which wound up being my first step climbing out of that hole, and it took several years.
More than a decade later I noticed a similar behavioral trend happen with one of my colleagues. Great guy, kind of the office clown. Always used to be very engaged with people and was a fixture at happy hours and other things we’d all get together and do. Until he suddenly wasn’t. I tried not to press but eventually did. He broke down and told me he’d been diagnosed with cancer and didn’t want people to know.
This stuff is difficult. We’re all conditioned to hide our hurt. And people can be really good at it.
#18
Giving things away.
Especially important and meaningful pieces.
Image credits: struggling_baddie
As for why it's so important to be on the lookout for these behaviors, Krista says it's sometimes the people you least expect who are struggling the most. "There have been cases where someone you would never suspect was struggling with mental health issues has wanted to end their life," she noted. "People can often disguise their mental health struggles very well. Highly successful and educated individuals often show reluctance to seek mental health help."
#19
In a social encounter where all others are sharing their troubles, they stay silent and distant. They never mention anything wrong and when asked directly they play their answers into a corner. Sure, it may just be them doing ok, but it also could be not seeing their problems as worth the attention of others, a common depression situation.
Image credits: WouldUKindlyDMBoobs
#20
Constant anger.
YetAnotherDev:
Typical, yet often unknown, symptome for depression in men.
Image credits: ccminiwarhammer
#21
Joking masks pain.
Wetness_Protection:
Joking is such a strong indication and I know because I do it. I struggle with a lot of childhood trauma and have very little understanding of how to form meaningful relationships as a result. Whenever I’m in social settings I constantly joke around. Silly puns, crude humor, whatever I can do to get a laugh. It keeps us from being vulnerable with others while seeming ok on the surface. But I have to fight the impulse to make a bad joke or do something silly when my wife goes in for a hug. I’ve started noticing just how bad it is lately but it’s so hard to stop once that becomes your mask.
Image credits: Hmarf
"People often hide their mental health struggles because they don't want to burden others or feel that masking their issues has become normal. This tendency to hide feelings can make it difficult for them to share what's really going on," the psychotherapist says.
"There's a common myth that if someone appears beautiful, popular, or successful, they must be happy, but that's not always true. Many people who seem successful or outwardly happy, like Matthew Perry, Kate Spade, and Robin Williams, may actually be struggling with deep issues. The stigma around depression and seeking mental health help often leads individuals to keep their struggles and suicidal thoughts to themselves."
#22
Keeping conversations very surface-level.
Constantly redirecting the conversation to be about the other person/people to keep from talking about themselves.
Answering questions with very basic answers and immediately redirecting away to something else.
I guess the silver lining here is that we aren't alone in feeling this way. I hope each of you start to find things that make you happy and can climb out of whatever hole you find yourself in. And I hope I can, too. We can do this.
Image credits: BobbyLee_Swagger
#23
A sudden change in weight, both losing or gaining some.
Image credits: Delicious-Plane8361
#24
Speaking from my own personal experience:
- decline in work ethic
- poor hygiene/cleanliness
- irritable
- if you have a roommate: hiding in their room
- bad acne
- sleeping a lot
- poor communication
- more negative than usual
- lack of interest in their favorite things/hobbies.
"When clients describe their lives as perfect or their childhood as ideal, it often signals that they may have a pattern of suppressing their true feelings and avoiding discussing their challenges and traumas," Krista noted.
"Holding in these emotions can create a heavy burden. Sharing feelings and not facing challenges alone can greatly help in managing them better and facilitate healing. Those who end their lives often see it as a solution to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness," she explained. "This usually stems from a lack of support and unhealthy coping mechanisms, underscoring the importance of reaching out for help and finding healthier ways to address life's difficulties."
#25
You haven’t heard from them in six months. But your ego says that you shouldn’t contact them because they didn’t contact you.
Image credits: Shh-poster
#26
One that I think I missed was a buddy of mine that was a part of the same sport group showed up in person to one of our games to say that he was busy and wasn’t going to be around for most of the season. I felt it was strange because who comes in person to announce their absence?
The week or so later he went missing in the woods and they found his body 3 days later. I don’t know if it was an accident or s*icide and I don’t want to reveal too many details of it, but if your gut says something's off, then go with your gut.
#27
Living or work environment is in chaos or disarray. No one likes to hear or talk about this but . . . yeah.
Image credits: steamyhotpotatoes
"When you're in a wealthy, healthy country with a successful career and supportive family but still feel depressed, the solutions can seem less straightforward and there may appear to be fewer options for improvement," Krista shared. "In contrast, someone who is poor and facing significant stress might still hold onto hope that their situation can improve, as they see their struggles as more directly changeable. The contrast lies in how each person perceives their ability to change their circumstances and find hope for a better future."
#28
Stock answers on how they are doing.
Image credits: Competitive_Map9430
#29
Irritability. It's everything other then you but it's hard to see that when someone is treating you negativley. Its overlooked as a symptom of other issues. Including depression, cptsd, and stress response.
#30
They stop responding to group texts because they can't handle social interaction.
