If you were experiencing signs of mental health issues, would you be able to recognize them?

The young adult years (roughly ages 18 to 26) can be a trying time. At this stage, you are experiencing the push and pull between wanting independence and not knowing how to fully handle it yet. Societal pressures, financial and career concerns, and general life stress contribute significantly, making it unsurprising that young adults experience mental health issues such as anxiety and depression at twice the rate of teenagers.

Here are the signs of mental health issues you should be looking out for, plus tips on supporting mental illness recovery and all that comes next. 

Common Signs of Mental Health Issues in Young Adults

There are many different kinds of mental illness, each with its own unique signs and symptoms. While the signs below are not a clear indication that you are struggling with a mental health disorder, they should be a catalyst to having an open discussion and possibly seeking out professional care. 

Some signs to be aware of include:

• Social avoidance or isolation
• Prolonged periods of sadness
• Severe mood swings
• Sudden weight gain or loss
• Unexplained changes in sleep or eating habits
• Extreme risk-taking behavior
• Self-harm behaviors
• Substance use
• Talk of irrational fears
• Sudden irritability or aggression
• Suicidal ideation or attempts

Keep in mind that adolescence and young adulthood are the peak stages at which mental illness begins to present. Likewise, some conditions tend to be more prevalent than others at this time of life, including depression, eating disorders, deliberate self-harm, and substance use disorder. 

Understanding the Causes of Mental Health Issues in Young People

The nature vs. nurture debate is highly relevant in the discussion around young adult mental health, and there is certainly a genetic component to these types of illnesses. That being said, there are also some unique triggers that can contribute to poor mental health during young adulthood, and they’re worth being aware of as you navigate this tricky stage of life. 

The leading causes of mental health issues in young adults are:

• Lack of purpose or direction
• Financial worries
• Worries about achievements
• Fear that the world is falling apart
• Loneliness or other relationship challenges
• Social and political issues, particularly global concerns

Many of these are very real worries that can’t just disappear with the snap of a finger. Supporting mental illness and wellness then becomes more about appropriately responding to what’s going on rather than the impossible task of trying to remove all stressors and anxieties. 

Supporting Mental Illness Recovery Now and in the Future

If you are worried about your mental health, know that you are not alone – and that you have options. 

If possible, reach out to supportive friends and/or family members and fill them in on what you are experiencing. We can be incredibly good at hiding our mental health struggles, and the people closest to us may not realize that something serious is going on. 

Don’t have someone you feel comfortable calling? Connect with the free suicide and crisis hotline by calling or texting 988 or by visiting 988lifeline.org for a live chat. 

Asking for help is a powerful act. You can find professional support through therapy and designated young adult mental health programs. Support groups can also be immensely helpful, either in-person or online. Find virtual support groups via platforms like HeyPeers or Psych Central. 

Ultimately, the healing journey looks different for everyone, and it’s essential to have patience and compassion for yourself as you embark on the path to recovery. Set realistic goals, celebrate small victories, and always remember that you are so much more than your mental health challenges. 

Paradigm Residential Mental Health Treatment for Young Adults

At Paradigm Treatment, we specialize in mental health services tailored for young adults. If you or someone you love is experiencing one or more of the signs or symptoms mentioned above, we encourage you to reach out to us to learn about our residential young adult programs in Malibu and San Rafael, California, and our approach to effective treatment.