WATCH OUT FOR THESE COMMON SYMPTOMS

There is no litmus test that can let someone know if they are struggling with their mental health or if it is the result of a physical illness. A medical practitioner will be best placed to make a diagnosis. We asked Voon Yen Sing, senior assistant director of Clinical Services at the Singapore Association for Mental Health for some common symptoms that may be indicators.

• Inability or reduction in ability to carry out daily activities or handle daily challenges and stress

• Changes in emotion, such as feeling excessively sad, anxious, guilty, angry or fearful

• Confused thinking or difficulties in concentrating

• Changes in social interaction, like avoiding friends and social activities, or exhibiting inappropriate behaviours like talking excessively

• Changes in sleeping habits or having low energy