How Do I Know Whether It’s Time To Get Help From a Therapist?

It is normal for people to struggle mentally once in a while, as life can get really tough sometimes. Loved ones may pass away, we may lose our job, we may not have felt like ourselves in a long time, we may be overwhelmed with stress, and so much more. No matter what it is you are struggling with, a therapist can help improve the symptoms you are experiencing through talk therapy.

In therapy, people also learn how to deal with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, or other challenges that may take longer to respond to treatment. Research suggests that the benefits of talk therapy can last significantly longer than just medication by itself. Learning new skills and ways to cope are often what people truly need in order to manage their lives with less mental tension and distress.

What are signs that I need to get help from a therapist?

Being told by someone that you need to go to therapy can feel insulting, however, we must be aware of the stigmatizing of therapy in general. Many people avoid therapy due to religious or personal beliefs, or because they think it doesn’t actually work. Sadly, less than half of people who struggle with mental health problems get help from a therapist. Untreated issues of the mind can lead to negative effects, such as: 

  • Having trouble getting out of bed and going to school or work
  • Challenges in relationships and/or taking care of children
  • The need for hospitalization in a mental-related hospital
  • Suicidal thinking, planning, and/or action

If you or someone you know is having such a hard time that they are exhibiting any of the signs above, then it is vital that they get the help they need today. This is especially true if you or your loved one is having thoughts of suicide and are experiencing a mental crisis. There are suicide hotlines that you must contact immediately.

How do I know whether my stress is interfering with my everyday life?

If you are on the fence as to whether to seek help from a therapist, chances are, if you are even asking yourself this question then it’s probably time to book an appointment as soon as possible. If your worry about certain issues is taking up hours out of your day, if your quality of life has decreased, if you have been avoiding others, or if school/work/relationships have been negatively affected, then it’s time to consult with a therapist in Palatine, IL. It is imperative that you get help if you deal with daily or recurring feelings of:

  • Apathy, losing interest in the activities you normally enjoy
  • Hopelessness, feeling as if you have no future
  • Agoraphobia, where you find it hard to leave your house or have fear of being in new places (panic attacks may occur)
  • Withdrawing socially, where you are avoiding others out of fear or worry
  • Intrusive thoughts that you worry about throughout the day, everyday
  • Fatigue, sleeping more than usual, and having trouble getting up from bed

Thanks to Lotus Wellness Center for their insight into counseling and how to know when it’s time to see a therapist.