What is mental distress and why does it happen? 

Summary: Mental distress is a widespread emotional challenge affecting nearly half of Australian adults. It stems from life changes, pressures, relationships, and health issues. While not a diagnosis, it affects well-being and may cause serious problems if ignored. Identifying distress early and seeking support can ease symptoms and restore balance for better health.  

Let’s be honest, life can get messy. Some days, it feels like your thoughts race and your emotions feel completely out of control. That’s mental distress, and it happens to the best of us. In fact, from 2020 to 2022, 42.9% of Australian adults aged 16-85 experienced a mental health disorder. You are not alone, and you are not without options. Understanding mental distress is the first step toward healing, finding help, and remembering that brighter days are well within reach. Ready to dive in? Let’s go! 

What is mental distress?  

Common signs and symptoms   

1. Emotional symptoms: Continual sadness, irritability, mood fluctuations, anxiety, or feelings of hopelessness and being overwhelmed. 
2. Cognitive symptoms: Challenges in focusing, racing thoughts, persistent worry, difficulty in making decisions, or a sense of mental “fog” or confusion. 
3. Behavioural symptoms: Social withdrawal, changes in eating or sleeping habits, neglecting duties, or resorting to substances for coping. 
4. Physical symptoms: Exhaustion, headaches, muscle tension, gastrointestinal issues, rapid heart rate, or unexplained pains. 
5. Social symptoms: Avoidance of social interactions, feelings of isolation, frequent conflicts in relationships, or disinterest in connecting with others. 

How it can vary from person to person.

1. Different emotions: Some individuals may feel profound sadness or anxiety, while others might be easily irritated, overwhelmed, or emotionally numb. 
2. Physical symptoms: One person may suffer from headaches or stomach pain, while another feels consistently fatigued or has difficulty sleeping well. 
3. Coping styles: Some may isolate themselves and avoid social situations, while others might keep themselves busy, work excessively, or seek distractions like food, screens, or substances. 
4. Cultural and personal background: Cultural influences and upbringing affect how someone displays distress. Some might express themselves openly, while others prefer to keep it private. 
5. Severity and timing: For some, mental distress may be brief and manageable; for others, it can be prolonged and more intense, particularly without support. 

Also read: Emotional burnout: Causes, symptoms, and solutions 

Why does mental distress happen?

1. Stressful life events: Significant changes, such as the death of a loved one, job loss, divorce, or relocation, can elicit strong emotional reactions. 
2. Ongoing pressure: Consistent stress from academics, work, financial issues, or relationships can accumulate and lead to burnout or anxiety over time. 
3. Trauma or past experiences: Experiencing or witnessing abuse, violence, or neglect, especially during childhood, can result in enduring emotional consequences. 
4. Poor coping skills: When individuals lack healthy coping mechanisms for stress, they may become overwhelmed more readily and experience increased distress. 
5. Isolation or lack of support: Feeling isolated or lacking support during challenging times can intensify distress, especially without someone to confide in. 
6. Underlying mental health conditions: Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD can heighten sensitivity to stress or emotional pressure. 

Also read: Loss of interest vs laziness: Are these signs of depression? 

Mental distress vs. mental illness: what’s the difference?

Mental distress and mental illness are interconnected yet distinct. Here's an explanation to clarify the difference: 

Mental distress is a fleeting emotional reaction to difficult life circumstances. It represents your mind's response to stress, pressure, or challenging events, like exams, loss, or conflicts. It can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, or irritability, but typically improves with rest, support, or time. Everyone encounters mental distress at various points in their lives. 

Conversely, mental illness is a diagnosable medical condition. It consists of enduring patterns of thoughts, feelings, or behaviours that disrupt daily life. Examples include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Mental illness often necessitates professional treatment, such as therapy, medication, or a combination of both. 

Tips to manage mental distress at home

1. Engage in deep breathing: Taking slow, deep breaths helps soothe your nervous system and alleviate feelings of anxiety or panic.
2. Ensure adequate sleep: Strive for 7 to 9 hours of rest each night. A consistent sleep routine enhances mood and mental sharpness.
3. Remain physically active: Even mild exercises like walking, stretching, or yoga can elevate mood and help release accumulated tension. 
4. Reduce screen time: Excessive time spent on devices, social media, or news can heighten stress. Make sure to take regular breaks to disconnect and rejuvenate.
5. Consume nourishing foods: Well-balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, and water support both physical and mental well-being. 
6. Speak to someone you trust: Expressing your thoughts and feelings to a friend, family member, or support line can alleviate emotional burden.
7. Document your thoughts: Journaling allows you to express emotions and gain clarity on your thoughts and feelings. 
8. Engage in enjoyable activities: Participate in hobbies, creative pursuits, music, or anything that brings you peace or joy.
9. Practice mindfulness or meditation: Focusing on the present can reduce overthinking and foster a sense of tranquillity. 

How Hola Health can help in mental distress  

Conclusion:

FAQs

Is mental distress the same as mental illness?

How do I know if I’m experiencing mental distress?

When should I speak to a doctor or mental health professional?

Can I get a mental health plan through Hola Health?

Is it normal to feel mental distress sometimes?

Can lifestyle changes help reduce mental distress?