Possible early warning signs of mental ill health
Identifying early if someone might be struggling with their mental health is a good way to help prevent things getting worse. Possible warning signs are:
- Struggles with motivation, punctuality and decision making
- Making mistakes more often
- Unable to concentrate
- Disorganisation and forgetfulness
- Increase in unexplained absences or sick leave
- Mood swings or unusual displays of emotion (eg frequent irritability or tearfulness)
- Unable to delegate tasks and trying to work much too hard
- Over-reacting to problems
- Erratic or changed behaviour, such as withdrawal from social contact
- Lack of interest in appearance, or diminished personal hygiene
- Hand tremor
- Practising under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Being overtly aggressive or defensive
- Inappropriate dispensing and drug ordering
- Inability to communicate effectively
- Disappearing from the practice in a low mood but returning in a short time appearing much happier
- Increased client complaints
- Difficulty in coping with emergencies
