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Know the Signs, Start the Conversation

I thought I was just tired,” says Jamie, a 34-year-old mom in Savannah. “But when I stopped returning calls and couldn’t get out of bed, I realized something deeper was going on.”

Mental health affects every aspect of our lives—how we think, feel, and connect with others. Yet too often, it’s ignored until we or someone we love reaches a breaking point. In Georgia and across the U.S., mental health concerns are more common than many realize. In 2021 alone, nearly 1 in 4 adults experienced a mental illness. The sooner we recognize the signs, the sooner healing can begin.

Why Early Recognition Matters

Mental health struggles often start subtly. You might notice changes in behavior, mood, or thinking patterns—either in yourself or a loved one. Like any health issue, mental health conditions are easier to manage when addressed early.

Recognizing the signs doesn’t require a medical degree—just a little awareness and empathy. At Georgia Outreach, our goal is to empower individuals and communities across the state to notice those signs and respond with care.

Common Warning Signs to Watch For

Everyone’s experience with mental health is unique, but here are some common red flags that may signal someone is struggling:

Emotional changes

  • Persistent sadness, anxiety, or mood swings

  • Feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or worthless

  • Sudden irritability or anger

Behavioral changes

  • Withdrawing from friends or social activities

  • Losing interest in favorite hobbies

  • Unusual changes in sleep, eating, or daily routines

  • Using alcohol or drugs to cope

Physical signs

  • Unexplained fatigue

  • Significant weight loss or gain

  • Insomnia or oversleeping

Cognitive struggles

  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

  • Confused thinking or irrational thoughts

  • Trouble recognizing their own behavior changes

Verbal cues

  • Talking about feeling like a burden

  • Expressing hopelessness or feeling trapped

  • Mentioning thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If you recognize any of these signs, don’t dismiss them. Checking in—even with a simple, “Hey, I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a little off lately”—can open the door to much-needed support.

How to Talk to Someone You’re Worried About

Starting that conversation may feel uncomfortable, but your concern could be a turning point in someone’s life. Here’s how to approach it:

  1. Choose the right time and space – Pick a quiet, private moment where you both feel safe.

  2. Listen without judgment – Let them share without rushing to give advice or “fix it.”

  3. Encourage professional help – Gently suggest speaking with a therapist or counselor. Let them know it’s okay to ask for support.

  4. Stay connected – Follow up. Let them know you’re there for them.

Support is Here at Georgia Outreach

If you or someone you love is facing mental health challenges, Georgia Outreach is here to help. Our experienced clinicians offer therapy, psychiatric services, and personalized care across several locations throughout south Georgia.

We believe mental health support should be accessible, compassionate, and tailored to each individual’s needs.

👉 Take the first step today—call us or visit www.georgiaoutreach.com to schedule an appointment.