You can be functioning—and still not be okay

Community: Mental Wellness

Mental-health difficulties do not always look like complete breakdown. Someone may continue to: • attend meetings • meet deadlines • care for the family • smile in photographs • respond with “I’m fine” And still be struggling internally. Possible signs of emotional distress may include: • constantly feeling mentally exhausted • becoming unusually irritable • losing interest in previously enjoyable activities • withdrawing from people • struggling to concentrate • experiencing persistent changes in sleep or appetite • feeling hopeless, numb or overwhelmed Being productive does not automatically mean being well. When distress persists, worsens or interferes with daily life, speaking with a qualified mental-health professional can help. What is one sign of emotional exhaustion that pe