The term “mentally unstable” is used to describe someone who seems emotionally or psychologically distressed. It is often used in the context of someone who is struggling with a mental health condition or crisis. But what does it really mean? And why does the language you use around mental health matter?
In this article, we’ll explore the concept of mental instability, what it means, and why the phrase isn’t used as much anymore. You’ll also learn the symptoms of a mental health condition and how to help someone who is struggling.
Mentally Unstable: What it Means and The Importance of Language
When people say someone is mentally unstable, they usually mean the person is struggling with their emotions, thoughts, or behaviors in a way that affects their daily life. This could look like intense mood swings, irrational fears, or difficulty coping with everyday situations. These challenges might stem from anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health conditions.
The words we use to talk about mental health can have a big impact. Calling someone “mentally unstable” can sound dismissive or judgmental, even if that’s not the intention. It is stigmatizing language that might make someone feel embarrassed or less likely to ask for help.
Instead, using language like “struggling with mental health” or “experiencing emotional distress” is more compassionate and accurate. It focuses on what the person is going through rather than labeling or stigmatizing them.
Symptoms of a Mental Health Condition
There are over 300 diagnosable mental health conditions and personality disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Each condition has its own unique symptoms and criteria that are met for a diagnosis. Some of the most common conditions are:
- Major depressive disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Borderline personality disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1 billion people or 13% of the global population live with a mental health condition. In 2021, every 1 in 5 U.S. adults experienced a mental illness.
While the symptoms of mental illness vary depending on which condition a person has, common symptoms include:
- Sudden mood swings or emotional outbursts
- Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
- Unexplained physical symptoms like headaches or stomach pain
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities
- Paranoid thoughts or extreme distrust of others
- Increased irritability or aggressive behavior
- Changes in appetite or eating habits
- Struggling to handle everyday challenges
- Engaging in self-harm or having suicidal thoughts
How Mental Illnesses Affect Daily Life and Functioning
Mental health challenges can make daily life difficult in various ways. People often turn to unhealthy behaviors, such as using drugs and alcohol, to cope.
Difficulty With Tasks and Responsibilities
Mental illnesses can make even simple daily tasks feel overwhelming. Things like paying bills, cleaning the house, or managing a schedule can become difficult due to low energy, lack of focus, or persistent feelings of anxiety or depression. Responsibilities that once felt routine might feel impossible to complete, which can add to feelings of frustration or guilt.
Isolation and Loneliness
Many people with mental health challenges tend to withdraw from others. Anxiety, depression, or social discomfort can make socializing feel exhausting or stressful. This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, even if loved ones are nearby. Over time, avoiding social interactions can make it harder to maintain relationships or reach out for help when it’s needed.
Lack of Self Care
Mental illness often affects a person’s ability to care for themselves. Basic self-care habits like showering, eating balanced meals, exercising, or attending medical appointments may be neglected. Depression, for example, can drain a person’s motivation to complete even the most essential daily routines.
Poor Performance at Work or School
Mental health conditions can impact concentration, memory, and productivity, leading to struggles at work or school. A person might miss deadlines, call in sick more often, or feel disconnected from their responsibilities. Anxiety can cause someone to feel overly stressed about tasks, while depression might make it hard to find the energy to complete them.
Affected Relationships
Mental health challenges can strain relationships with family, friends, and partners. Mood swings, irritability, or withdrawal can make communication more difficult. Loved ones might not fully understand what’s happening, which can lead to misunderstandings or frustration on both sides.
How to Help Someone Living With a Mental Health Condition
Mental health disorders affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, but there are still ways to help.
Educate Yourself
One of the best ways to help someone with a mental health condition is to learn more about what they’re going through. Take time to read reliable sources about their diagnosis, symptoms, and challenges. Understanding the facts can help you provide more compassionate, informed support and avoid misconceptions or assumptions.
Don’t Use Harmful or Stigmatizing Language
Language matters when it comes to mental health. Avoid using words like “crazy,” “unstable,” or other dismissive terms that can feel hurtful or isolating. Instead, use supportive language and focus on the person, not the condition. For example, saying “They’re struggling with anxiety” is more respectful than labeling someone as “an anxious person.”
Encourage Professional Help
Mental health professionals can provide the tools and support needed to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Encourage your loved one to seek help from a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. Offer to help them find resources or even accompany them to an appointment if they feel nervous about going alone.
Be There for Support
Simply being present can make a big difference. Let your loved one know you’re there to listen without judgment. Friends and family members should check in regularly, offer help with daily tasks if needed, and remind them that they don’t have to face their struggles alone. Your support can provide a sense of stability and comfort during difficult times.
How is Mental Illness Treated?
While everyone’s needs are different, most treatment plans include a combination of professional care, support, and healthy habits. Mental health treatments include:
- Medication – Medications like antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or anti-anxiety meds can reduce symptoms and improve day-to-day functioning.
- Therapy – Talking with a mental health professional helps individuals better understand their condition and develop practical coping skills.
- Support – Family, friends, and peer support groups provide encouragement, understanding, and a sense of connection.
- Lifestyle changes – Exercise, sleep, nutrition, and stress management all play a role in maintaining better mental health.
When is it Time to Seek Help?
Knowing when it’s time to seek treatment isn’t always easy. Signs that you or a loved one need help include:
- Daily tasks feel overwhelming.
- Using substances or unhealthy habits to cope.
- Feeling sad, anxious, or hopeless for a long time.
- You feel unable to cope with stress or other emotions on your own.
- Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues without a clear cause.
- Trouble sleeping or changes in appetite.
- Friends or family have expressed concern.
- You’ve tried to handle the situation alone, but it’s not getting better.
If any of these sound familiar, reaching out for help can make a difference.
Compassionate Mental Health Services With First Step Behavioral Health
At 1st Step, mental well-being is not something we take lightly. Our program is not just about treating addiction; it’s about treating the person as a whole. From pain, comes significant growth and learning, and we believe that we can help you see that. Call today to speak with an admissions coordinator to learn about our mental health treatment options.
References:
- United Nations: Nearly one billion people have a mental disorder: WHO
- World Health Organization (WHO): Mental disorders
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Mental Health By the Numbers
- Science Direct: From treatment of mental disorders to the treatment of difficult life situations: A hypothesis and rationale
