Mental wellbeing is your emotional, psychological, and social health. It affects how you think, feel, act, handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Poor mental wellbeing isn’t always obvious it can creep in gradually and impact work, relationships, and physical health. Recognizing early signs helps you seek support before issues deepen. These signs are common across anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout, but everyone experiences them differently. If several persist for two weeks or more, professional help (like a GP, therapist, or helpline) is recommended.

Here are five key signs :

1. Persistent low mood or sadness Feeling down, hopeless, or tearful for weeks without clear reason is a red flag. This isn’t just a bad day it’s a pattern that interferes with daily life, often linked to depression.

2. Extreme fatigue or low energy Even after rest, you feel drained. Simple tasks like getting out of bed or replying to messages seem overwhelming. This isn’t laziness; it’s a common symptom of burnout, anxiety, or depression draining mental reserves.

3. Withdrawal from social connections You avoid friends, family, or activities you once enjoyed. Isolation becomes a habit, not a choice. This withdrawal often stems from shame, overwhelm, or fear of burdening others.

4. Irritability or sudden mood swings Small things trigger anger, frustration, or tears. You snap at loved ones or feel on edge constantly. This emotional volatility signals your nervous system is overloaded.

5. Changes in sleep or appetite You either can’t sleep (insomnia) or sleep too much (hypersomnia). Appetite shifts too eating far more or far less than usual, often tied to emotional distress rather than physical need.

These signs don’t mean you’re “broken” they’re signals your mind needs care, just like a fever signals illness. Early support prevents deeper struggles. Mental wellbeing isn’t about being happy all the time; it’s about resilience and balance. You’re not alone, and help works.