Going through rough patches is just part of life, but sometimes they can be so overwhelming that they knock the life out of you.
It’s not always immediately obvious when someone is really struggling. They might seem fine on the outside and insist that everything is okay, but if you notice them doing any of these things, chances are they’re having a much harder time than they’d like to admit. Try to talk to them, offer your support, and encourage them to get the help they need — everyone deserves to be happy, after all.
1. They’ve become a bit of a hermit.
When life gets overwhelming, some people tend to hide away. They might stop showing up to social events or dodge phone calls. It’s not that they don’t like you anymore; they’re just struggling to face the world. If you notice a friend pulling a disappearing act, they might need a gentle nudge to know you’re there for them. Sometimes, just letting them know you’re thinking of them, even if they’re not ready to hang out, can make a world of difference.
2. Their sleep is all over the place.
Sleep troubles can be a big red flag. Maybe they’re snoozing all day or tossing and turning all night. Either way, wonky sleep patterns can leave anyone feeling out of sorts. If your mate mentions they can’t remember the last time they had a good night’s rest, it might be worth checking in on them. Good sleep is crucial for mental health, so persistent issues could be a sign of deeper struggles.
3. They’ve lost their spark for things they used to love.
We all have those things that light us up – hobbies, favourite shows, or activities we can’t get enough of. But when someone’s going through a tough time, those joys might not bring the same excitement. If your friend who used to live for weekend hikes is now permanently glued to the couch, something deeper might be going on. This loss of interest in beloved activities is often a key sign of depression or overwhelming stress.
4. They’re looking a bit scruffy these days.
When the basics like showering or changing clothes become a chore, it’s often a sign that someone’s inner world is in turmoil. If your usually dapper friend starts looking like they’ve been camping for a week, they might be struggling to keep up with self-care. It’s not about judging their appearance, but noticing a significant change that might indicate they’re having trouble taking care of themselves.
5. Their mood is like a rollercoaster.
We all have our ups and downs, but if someone seems to be flipping between emotions faster than a TV remote, they might be having a hard time. One minute they’re laughing, the next they’re snapping over nothing. These mood swings often mean they’re dealing with more than they can handle. It’s exhausting for them and can be confusing for those around them, but it’s usually a cry for help rather than intentional behaviour.
6. They’re dropping the ball on responsibilities.
Missing deadlines, forgetting appointments, or letting the dishes pile up – when someone who’s usually on top of things starts letting things slide, it’s often because they’re overwhelmed. It’s not about being lazy; it’s about struggling to keep all the plates spinning. This neglect of duties can create a vicious cycle, adding more stress to an already difficult situation.
7. They’re leaning hard on not-so-great habits.
We all have our ways of unwinding, but if someone starts hitting the bottle harder than usual or loses hours to mindless scrolling, they might be trying to numb some tough feelings. These quick fixes often leave people feeling worse in the long run. It’s a red flag if these habits start interfering with daily life or become the primary way of coping with stress.
8. They’re always saying sorry or fishing for compliments.
If your friend is apologising for breathing or constantly asking if they look okay, their confidence might have taken a nosedive. This need for reassurance often comes from feeling shaky about their place in the world. While it’s natural to want support, excessive apologising or constant need for validation can indicate a serious dip in self-esteem.
9. They’ve become a real Debbie Downer.
When someone can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, everything starts looking gloomy. If your usually upbeat pal is suddenly convinced the sky is falling, they might be struggling to find hope in their situation. This pessimism can be contagious, but remember, it’s a symptom of their struggle, not their true personality shining through.
10. They’re always under the weather.
Headaches, stomach aches, mystery pains – sometimes our bodies sound the alarm when our minds are in distress. If your friend is constantly feeling poorly without any clear reason, it might be their body’s way of saying they’re not okay. These physical symptoms are real and can be just as debilitating as any other illness, even if they stem from emotional distress.
11. They’re scatterbrained and indecisive.
When life feels like it’s spiralling, even small choices can seem huge. If your usually sharp friend is forgetting stuff or can’t decide what to have for lunch, their mind might be overloaded with bigger worries. This mental fog can be frustrating for them and might impact their work or daily life, adding to their stress.
12. They’re their own worst critic.
We all have moments of self-doubt, but if someone’s constantly putting themselves down, it’s a sign they’re really struggling. If your friend can’t take a compliment or always assumes they’re messing up, their self-esteem might be at rock bottom. This negative self-talk can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, making it harder for them to bounce back from setbacks.
13. Their eating habits have gone haywire.
Food can be comfort or the last thing on someone’s mind when they’re struggling. If your friend has suddenly lost their appetite or is eating everything in sight, it might be their way of coping with stress. These changes in eating patterns can have real health consequences if they persist, adding physical challenges to emotional ones.
14. They feel stuck with no way out.
When problems pile up, it’s easy to feel trapped. If your friend keeps talking about being stuck in a dead-end job or a bad situation, they might need help seeing there are still options, even if they’re not obvious right now. This feeling of helplessness can be overwhelming and may lead to a sense of hopelessness if not addressed.
