Overview
Most people understand that physical or medical health care is about how our bodies feel. Normal questions that people ask about their bodies include: What is happening? What is changing? What doesn’t feel so good? How can a health care provider help?
But many people don’t realize that mental health care involves asking the same kinds of questions about our thoughts and feelings. Mental health problems can affect the way we think and feel and how we behave. And there is evidence that mental health problems can also affect our physical health.
Everyone gets sad or blue, nervous or excited once in a while. However, something may be wrong if these feelings:
- Continue longer than expected
- Limit your ability to do the things you once did
- Affect relationships with other people
- Make it harder to work, play, or relax
Things become a problem when thoughts or feelings interfere with daily life. Sometimes other people may notice or become concerned even before you do.
While getting help from mental health professionals may be a new experience for you, it does not mean you’re “crazy.” It’s just a way to change things—to feel better, think differently, act differently, and make different choices about how you behave and interact with others.
The following sections discuss some common mental health concerns that everyone should watch out for. Each of these conditions could require attention at some point in anyone’s life.