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5 Signs It’s Time to Seek Behavioral Health Support

Are bad days starting to feel less like passing moments and more like a regular part of life? Are you struggling to shake feelings of anxiety, depression, or loneliness? These may be signs that something deeper is going on. In this guide, we explore the top 5 signs it’s time to seek behavioral health support.

Behavioral Health Symptoms to Look Out For 

1) Prolonged Emotional Distress

It is normal to feel sad, worried, or stressed from time to time. However, when these emotions last for weeks or start to feel overwhelming, it may be a sign that you need extra support. Reach out for help if you are struggling with persistent anxiety, sadness, anger, panic attacks, or a sense of hopelessness that does not go away.

2) Changes in Sleep Patterns

Sleep is often the first to suffer when you are struggling emotionally or mentally. If you find yourself tossing and turning, oversleeping, or waking up tired every day, it may be time to seek behavioral health support. Missing out on deep sleep can make you more irritable, worsen anxiety and depression, and impact your physical health.

3) Alcohol and Substance Abuse

Turning to substances for relief can seem harmless at first. However, this coping mechanism can lead to physical dependence and greater emotional instability. If you find yourself using substances more often, needing larger amounts for the same effect, or are continuing to use them despite the negative consequences, it is time to seek behavioral health support.

4) Withdrawing from Relationships and Hobbies

Pulling away from friends, family, or activities you once enjoyed can be an early sign of emotional distress. Social withdrawal may start as a way to cope with stress, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed. Over time, this isolation increases feelings of loneliness and can make it harder to reconnect with the people and interests that matter most to you.

5) Difficulty Managing Daily Responsibilities

When routines that once felt simple seem exhausting, your emotional well-being may be suffering. You might notice slipping performance at work or school, trouble keeping up with household tasks, or difficulty maintaining relationships. Addressing these challenges early can help you preserve your independence and improve your overall quality of life.

Behavioral Health Services: What are They? And How Do They Help?

Behavioral health services are a range of resources and interventions that address challenges related to mental and emotional health. By meeting with trained specialists, you can pinpoint the root causes of your struggles, set realistic goals, and practice skills that make it easier to handle setbacks and adapt to change.

Behavioral Health Support in Central Washington

If you notice any of the signs that it is time to seek behavioral health support, MERIT is here to help. For over four decades, we have supported Central Washington residents with programs that promote resilience, well-being, and lasting change. Interested in learning more? Explore what we can do for you:

    Still wondering if behavioral health support is right for you or your loved one? Contact us online or at 877-789-3344 to get in touch with our team. MERIT is a leading provider of evidence-based behavioral health services in Ellensburg, Kennewick, Pasco, Sunnyside, Toppenish, Wapato, and Yakima.