You feel like something is there, but you’re not sure what. Maybe he doesn’t talk as much. Maybe she gets irritated more quickly. Or seems a little too cheerful. What do you truly see when someone is struggling with their mental health? Many young people are masters at hiding it. But there are signals you can pay attention to.
During Mental Health Week (June 2-8, 2025), we’re sharing 10 of them. Not to diagnose, but to connect with people sooner.
10 signs to be aware of
1. They retreat
From friends, hobbies, school or conversations at home.
2. They sleep poorly
Trouble falling asleep or waking up often during the night.
3. They react differently than you are used to
Becoming angry more quickly, irritable or noticeably quiet and absent.
4. Their eating behavior changes
Eating much less. Or snacking excessively.
5. They say more often that they are ‘tired’
Also with things that used to give them energy.
6. They worry a lot or doubt themselves
“I can’t do it anyway.” “They’ll probably find me annoying.”
7. They neglect themselves
No longer feel like taking a shower, tidying my room, or doing homework.
8. They smile less
The spark seems to have gone a bit, even in things they enjoy.
They make cynical or gloomy comments
“What does it matter…” or “I don’t really need to be there.”
10. Your feeling says: something is not right
Trust your gut. Even if someone acts normal. Young people themselves often say this is the moment they hope someone will ask further questions, even if they say, “I’m fine.”
What can you do?
Don’t wait for someone to ask for help. Try to open a conversation and start with a simple question. In this blog post, you’ll find 25 questions to start the conversation about mental health.
What if talking isn’t possible (yet)?
Sometimes a young person wants to talk, but prefers to talk to someone else. This isn’t rejection—it’s often a matter of shame or the feeling that you might worry.
It’s not rejection if I don’t talk to you. It’s self-protection. – a young person via @ease
That’s okay. What truly matters is having someone who will listen. You can guide them to @ease. Here, young people talk with peers their own age, which often makes sharing feel safer and easier. It’s always free and completely confidential. You’ll find all our locations and opening hours here. And if they prefer, they can also chat online.