Expert issues urgent warning to people who procrastinate as it could be sign of serious health issue

An expert has issued an urgent warning to people who procrastinate as it could be a sign of a more serious mental health condition.

I mean, we're all guilty of it, right? Whether it's washing the dishes or making the evening's meal, to running the hoover around the house, there are many things we can put off due to procrastination.

And while that's perfectly normal, one expert has explained how such signs within teenagers, in particular, may be a sign of someone more serious.

As per the Express, studies have found frequent procrastination could be a sign of mental health issues such as low self-esteem, so it it's advised to consult a healthcare professional.

Fiona Yassin, leading expert at The Wave Clinic, said: "Procrastinating behaviour can be a warning sign to parents that their child is suffering with low self-esteem."

Procrastinating behaviour can be a sign of low self-esteem (Getty Stock Photo)

Latest findings concluded a link between procrastination and self-doubt, with the two combined making matters worse, according to Yassin.

"Adolescents with low self-esteem may have less belief in their ability to complete a task well, causing them to avoid it," she continued.

"Lower motivation and self-expectation traits connected to low self-esteem may also lead to procrastination."

The expert added: "On the other hand, procrastination can also lead to low self-esteem among adolescents. Procrastination is associated with poorer academic performance which can make young people feel less good about themselves."

Delaying tasks, whether it be the dreaded school homework, or household chores could take a toll on a teenager's mental and physical health, Yassin went on.

"These negative emotions might further harm a young person's self-esteem, reinforcing a vicious cycle of low self-esteem and procrastination," she said.

Procrastination could be a sign of more serious mental health problems (Getty Stock Photo)

So, what can be done to help?

Well, Yassin explained how therapy can be of help - something which the whole family can be involved if in required.

As per the Express, she said: "Sometimes procrastination is driven by ongoing parental pressure or expectations that can induce anxiety and stress.

"In these instances, family therapy and other interventions can aid parents and youngsters in establishing healthy behavioural dynamics that foster high self-esteem and self-efficacy.

"Therapeutic methods including group therapy sessions can also tackle insecure attachment styles and childhood experiences that might contribute to procrastination."

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 to reach a 24-hour crisis center or you can webchat at 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.