Mental Health or Situational Stress? 5 Ways to Tell the Difference

Mental health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being, and it's essential to your capacity for flourishing. But sometimes it can be difficult to know if you’re struggling with a mental health problem or rather situational stress. We want to help!

*Please note: we are not medical professionals. This information should not be used in place of a professional when one is needed.*

A big reason that it can be difficult to distinguish between a mental health problem and situational stress is there is often an overlap. Sometimes mental health problems can look like stress or issues that arise from a life event and vice versa. For example, both stress and anxiety can cause similar physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. However, there are some key differences to be aware of.

Situational Stress & Life Events are usually temporary—triggered by a clear and specific event or situation, such as job loss, relationship problems or status changes, or financial difficulties. These emotional and psychological issues typically resolve once the situation has passed, and the person can return to their normal level of functioning.

Mental Health Problems, on the other hand, typically persist, even after the stressful situation has passed or even without an obvious life event happening. These problems can also impact a person’s daily life and their ability to function. For example, symptoms of depression, such as feeling hopeless, loss of interest in activities, and persistent sadness, can occur in the absence of a life event or well beyond the situation that may have triggered it.

So, how can you tell if what you are experiencing is a mental health condition or situational? Here are 5 ways to tell the difference:

1. DURATION: Situational stress is usually short-lived and improves once the situation has passed. On the other hand, mental health problems may persist for a longer period of time—usually greater than 2 weeks. This is a sign that it may be more effective to seek a professional to help manage the issue.
2. INTENSITY: If you are experiencing intense emotions such as overwhelming anxiety, hopelessness, or extreme sadness, it may be a sign of a mental health problem rather than just situational stress. This is especially true if you are having thoughts of suicide to relieve the overwhelming feelings you may be experiencing. 
3. FREQUENCY: Situational stress usually occurs after a big life event, and comes and goes with that event. If you are experiencing symptoms on a regular basis, especially when there is no obvious trigger, this could be an indication that something more serious is going on. If you find yourself having a pattern of intense or overwhelming emotions or negative thoughts, this may be a sign of a mental health problem.
4. INTERFERENCE WITH DAILY LIFE: We all experience emotional and mental challenges. But if what you are experiencing is interfering with your ability to carry out your daily activities—such as work, taking care of yourself, or socializing—that could be a sign of a mental health problem. Many people with mental health disorders find they are struggling at work, in their home, or with personal relationships. They may be losing friends or changing their social lives in ways that make them feel isolated. Again, especially if this is for a prolonged period of time and not just over the course of the stressful event.
5. PRESENCE OF OTHER SYMPTOMS: Our bodies often react negatively to emotional or psychological distress. If you are experiencing physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems, or sleep disturbances, in addition to mental health symptoms, it may be a sign of a mental health problem. With that said, the emotional and physical symptoms of stress versus mental health conditions may be hard to distinguish. This is where professional help could be necessary to help you sort it out.

It's important to remember that everyone is different. While these are 5 good signs to look out for to tell the difference, your experience may look different or include other signs, and that’s okay! Your journey is unique. 

If you are unsure whether you are experiencing situational stress or a mental health problem, it may be helpful to talk to a mental health professional or a trusted healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual needs.

Whether it is a mental health problem or a very stressful situation, you are not alone. You deserve to get the help you need and flourish on your journey!