Mental illness symptoms can affect emotions, thoughts and behaviors. Examples of signs and symptoms include: Feeling sad or down. Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate. Each mental health condition has its own signs and symptoms. In general, however, professional help might be needed if you experience: Marked changes in personality, eating or sleeping patterns. An inability to cope with problems or daily activities. Mental Health Hope is an online provider of help and guidance for individuals enduring a difficult mental health event, such as grief retreat and loss.