Warning Signs and Early Support

It is easy to overlook early warning signs or dismiss them as normal at this age. Young adults may mask or minimize symptoms, presenting as “fine.” They may continue to function outwardly while struggling internally. In some situations, the first clear sign is the crisis itself. Sometimes changes in functioning, mood, behavior, or thinking from a person’s previous baseline may signal a decline in mental health.

Warning Signs

Changes in daily functioning

class attendance or grades
hygiene or self-care
sleep (too much, too little, or reversed day/night)
appetite or weight

Changes in mood and behavior

Irritability
anxiety
sadness
loss of interest
withdrawal
communication patterns
agitation

Changes in thinking and perception

new difficulty concentrating
not thinking clearly
suspicion or unusual beliefs about others
hearing, seeing, or believing things others do not

Additional warning signs related to substance use, which may cause or accompany mental illness

Changes in peer group
secrecy
unexplained need for money
drug paraphernalia
unusual smells