How can I tell if someone needs help?

Withdrawal — Recent social withdrawal and loss of interest in others

• Drop in functioning — An unusual drop in functioning, at school, work or social activities, such as quitting sports, failing in school or difficulty performing familiar tasks

• Problems thinking — Problems with concentration, memory or logical thought and speech that are hard to explain

• Increased sensitivity — Heightened sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells or touch; avoidance of over-stimulating situations

• Apathy — Loss of initiative or desire to participate in any activity

• Feeling disconnected — A vague feeling of being disconnected from oneself or one’s surroundings; a sense of unreality

• Illogical thinking — Unusual or exaggerated beliefs about personal powers to understand meanings or influence events; illogical or “magical” thinking typical of childhood in an adult

• Nervousness — Fear or suspiciousness of others or a strong nervous feeling

• Unusual behavior – Odd, uncharacteristic, peculiar behavior

• Sleep or appetite changes — Dramatic sleep and appetite changes or decline in personal care

• Mood changes — Rapid or dramatic shifts in feelings

Ways to help

contact an adult or health care professional

ask them is everything is okay (be aware they probably will lie)

They may be mad at you for a little bit but in the long run they will appreciate it.