Because emotional upset can sneak up on an individual, it is important to heed Nature's warning signals. Here is a list suggested by the National Association for Mental Health. Of course, these can be present in persons who are well, but overworked, tired, or in the midst of a crisis. But if the symptoms keep recurring, they should be brought to the attention of a physician:

(1) Belligerence. Walking around continuously with a chip on the shoulder, ready to argue or quarrel at the slightest excuse — or no excuse at all.

(2) Excessive Moodiness. Spells of "the blues" or "feeling down in the dumps", feeling a great deal of the time that "nothing is worthwhile or really matters".

(3) Exaggerated Worry. Continuous anxiety about nothing at all, or entirely out of proportion to the cause. (4) Suspicion and Mistrust. A persistent feeling that the world is full of dishonest, conniving people; that "everyone is trying to take advantage of me".

(5) Selfishness and Greediness. Lack of consideration of the needs of others, a "what's in it for me attitude" about almost everything.

(6) Helplessness and Dependency. A tendency to let others carry the burden, difficulty in making decisions.

(7) Poor Emotional Control. Exaggerated emotional outbursts out of proportion to the cause and at inappropriate times.

(8) Day-dreaming and Fantasy. Spending a good part of the time imagining "how things could be" rather than dealing with them as they are.

(9) Hypochondria. Worrying a great deal of the time about minor physical ailments; experiencing imaginary symptoms of illness. Don't panic if you notice any of these symptoms since, singly or together, they may happen to anyone in certain situations. Go see your doctor. Let him decide if you need any treatment. Research studies and case histories indicate that wholesome, natural foods can build mental and physical health. Taking any massive vitamin or mineral doses, however, is inadvisable unless the doctor prescribes it. Meanwhile, you can help improve your health with fresh fruits and vegetables, organic meats, fish, eggs, nuts and other seeds. Go easy on pastries, sweets, salted foods and all other artificial foods. To boost your nutritional store-bank, emphasise Brewer's Yeast and desiccated liver (available at health food stores) for the B-complex vitamins as well as minerals, protein and iron. Select organ meats, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, and other whole foods which are prime sources of healthful nutrients.

The healthful functioning of the body and of the peripheral and central nervous systems depends upon adequate nutrition. Boost your health and meet the challenge of emotional upset with nature. It may well be the most potent force you have!