October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month—a time to pause, reflect, and prioritize your emotional well-being. Just like you might schedule a physical check-up to monitor your health, it’s equally important to conduct a mental health self-check.
Asking yourself the right questions can help you recognize early warning signs, better understand your emotions, and take proactive steps toward balance and healing.
Here are five questions to ask yourself during a mental health self-check:
- How have I been feeling emotionally over the past two weeks?
Pay attention to patterns. Have you noticed more frequent feelings of sadness, irritability, or emptiness? If these feelings persist, they may signal something more than just a “bad day.”
- Am I experiencing changes in my sleep or appetite?
Mental health challenges often affect the body. Sleeping too much or too little, or noticing major shifts in eating habits, can be indicators that your emotional well-being needs attention.
- Do I still find joy in the things I used to love?
Losing interest in activities, hobbies, or relationships that once brought happiness can be a sign of depression. Reflecting on what excites you—or doesn’t—can provide valuable insight.
- How are my energy levels and ability to focus?
Struggling to concentrate, make decisions, or finding yourself constantly fatigued may mean your mental health needs extra care. Mental exhaustion is just as real as physical exhaustion.
- Do I feel supported, or am I isolating myself?
Connection is vital for mental well-being. Ask yourself if you’re reaching out to friends, family, or community—or pulling away. Isolation can intensify feelings of depression and anxiety.
What to Do if You Notice Red Flags
Recognizing changes in your mental health is the first step. If your self-check raises concerns, don’t ignore them. Talk with a trusted friend, reach out to a counselor, or consider a professional screening. Early intervention can make a big difference. At Living Waters Inc, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health. During National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, we encourage you to take time for self-reflection and connect with resources that support your well-being.
You don’t have to face mental health challenges alone—help is available, and healing is possible.
Living Waters Inc
Living Waters Inc serves as an essential bridge, connecting faith-based communities with both public and private sectors. As a non-profit organization, we are dedicated to nurturing and developing our most valuable asset: the people.
Our core values—Integrity, Purpose-Led, Future-Focused, and One Team—guide our mission. Committed to promoting mental wellness, we provide monthly content designed to support and encourage everyone’s mental health. Join us at #livingwatersinc for resources and insights on mental wellness and community collaboration.