Motivation logo

Signs that someone is going through it

HS

By HerStoriesPublished 3 years ago 4 min read
Like
Signs that someone is going through it
Photo by Luis Galvez on Unsplash

"Asiana has been acting weird lately, don't you find?"

"Omg yeah, I noticed it too! I wonder what's up with her."

"Same. Like, is she annoyed with us? She's been hella distant."

"I know... but like, why wouldn't she just say something?"

Shrug. "Who knows."

***

'Communication is key.' People always say it. Thing is, it's rarely even used and can backfire. Why do you think misunderstandings and petty arguments seem to be a common occurrence around you?

Yes, communication is indeed always the best and closest way to get to a mutual understanding as it involves two parties vocalizing their inner thoughts with one another.

But since that rarely happens, that forces us to use another trick. A superpower that people still need practice exercising: Observing.

Observing what?

Body language. Picking up signs.

No, don't try to guess what another person is thinking, but get used to paying attention to their actions and body language.

Realize that not everyone is skilled at expressing their thoughts openly to address their feelings. The same way not many people are skilled at observing, as simple as it may be for others. But it goes hand in hand with good communication skills as well.

In this post, I'll show you ways that you can exercise that skill and it might help you in a situation you may be dealing with right now.

Scenario: You are dealing with a family member or friend who you notice has been acting different and they won't talk to you about it.

You're frustrated and you want to confront them, but before you do, stop and put your observational skills into practice to best decide the appropriate course of action.

Here are some hints to take into consideration that this person may be going through something.

1.

Sudden messiness/carelessness.

They used to be somewhat tamed or organized with their stuff, but suddenly their room is a mess. Clothes out of drawers, strewn all over the floor. Vanity/desk covered by heaps of papers/personal items. This isn't always a case of "just lazy" but could also be an unmotivated, mentally tired person struggling to find the physical strength to "simply" put things away. Don't be quick to ridicule or yell at them. Observe the pattern, ask if they're okay.

2.

Sudden change of appearance.

Suddenly, this person that you've known for a while, with their simple haircut, decides to chop off their hair, cut bangs, try a new color or braiding style. Even a piercing or anything else that has to do with their appearance. It doesn't have to be a drastic change, but any minor difference can be a sign.

3.

Flakiness.

So you're part of a close friend group and you guys make plans quite frequently. There's that one friend who always acts like they're down to hang out, but when it actually comes the time, they go M.I.A or retract silently/last minute. When this happens more than it should (3+ times) I think that's when concern should be raised as this is a sign of withdrawal as they may be dealing with an issue.

4.

Quick to shut down.

This person can be very interactive one minute, and then completely zoned out the next to where it's impossible to get anything out of them. A person like this normally has a very active brain, but no way of getting it out orally as they become engulfed by this shell of emotions that prevents them from seeking help.

Bonus

5.

Not acting like themselves.

This person is suddenly doing things that they don't normally do. Getting angry more, being irrational, lashing out, etc.

6.

Strangely happy.

This person is in a sudden euphoric state or over enthusiastic when there is no reason to be, like after moping around for days. Unbalanced emotions such as this is something to look out for as it can indicate serious mental illness and can require professional intervention.

Look out for each other. Your friends, your family.

Provide trust and comfort to those around you. Be kind and patient. People's brains is something we'll never have access to, unless they were to share every single thought with us. But that doesn't happen, which is therefore why it's important to watch your words and actions always.

And for those who are having a bit of a rough time, I believe in you. I see your efforts. And there is always a light at the end of the dark tunnel. You will reach that light. Treat yourself nicely. Your feelings are valid, don't wait for someone to tell you that. Believe it, and help yourself. You got this.

**

You can find my video on this topic here on YouTube.

Take care of yourselves.

See you on the next post✌️

self help
Like

About the Creator

HerStories

Story sharer.

Writing✍️ + reading📖 = orgasmic combo

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.