Recognising early signs of mental health decline is essential for maintaining safety and wellbeing in care environments. Subtle changes in behaviour can indicate that a person is struggling emotionally. Warning signs may include withdrawal from activities, disrupted sleep, irritability, or loss of interest in daily routines.
A carer’s response should be:
• Observant and proactive: Notice small changes early and document concerns.
• Supportive: Offer a calm, reassuring presence and encourage routine and familiar activities.
• Collaborative: Share observations with healthcare professionals and work with the wider team to explore potential causes.
By recognising early indicators of mental health decline, carers can intervene sooner, helping individuals receive the support they need before problems escalate.
