Mental health: Know when to get help

Patterns in thoughts, feelings and behaviors can suggest when to get help for yourself or someone you care about.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Sometimes it can be hard to tell when a concern about mental health signals a need for professional help. In certain situations, the answer is clear. But in others, it isn't so obvious. For example, if you're afraid of giving a speech in public, does it mean you have a mental health condition or just a typical case of nerves? Or, when does shyness become a social phobia?

Here's help understanding how mental health conditions are identified.

Dec. 17, 2024