How Do I Know If I Need Therapy?
How Do I Know If I Need Therapy?
Written by Lily Thrope
Feeling down or cranky is part of the human experience - we all have our ‘off’ days. But sometimes these feelings might be an indication of something deeper going on that might benefit from professional support. Many people question whether therapy is right for them, and that is a normal question to ask oneself. While everyone's journey is unique, there are some key signs and changes in your life that might point toward talking to a therapist. Let's explore some of these indicators...
Emotional or Psychological Symptoms
It is normal to feel sad or have a bad day, but if you find yourself feeling constantly down, hopeless or anxious for weeks or months at a time, you might want to consider seeking help. Consider using a journal or a ‘mood tracker’ to gauge your emotions.
Behavioral Changes
Stay vigilant for any behavioral changes, such as a withdrawal from social events, changes in sleep or appetite, or an overall lack of interest in activities that used to bring you a sense of joy and contentment.
Cognitive Challenges
Depression and anxiety can manifest as different cognitive challenges, such as difficulty concentrating, struggling to focus or decision making. You may also notice yourself experiencing intrusive thoughts, which are recurring thoughts of fear, harm, or obsession.
Impact on Daily Life
Dealing with difficult mental health issues can impact daily life activities, from going to work to heading to the grocery store. You may see a declining performance or motivation due to these emotional struggles. You may also find yourself having difficulty in your relationships, whether familial, platonic, or romantic. If you find that your daily life is challenging and overwhelming, this might be a good indicator to explore therapy.
Physical Symptoms
Symptoms like chronic headaches, stomach aches, and dizziness frequently occur when we suffer from mental health problems. These are somatic indicators that may well be related to unexplored stress or trauma. Keep an eye out for any unexpected, but chronic, physical changes.
Life Transitions
Going through a major life transition–whether it's a job change or a move to a new living situation—can at times provoke enough imbalance in your life to seek therapy. Transitions, whether happy or sad, can be challenging, and therapy provides a safe space to explore the emotions and challenges that come with inevitable change.
Loss of a Loved One
Losing a loved one and experiencing grief can be difficult to process on your own. We often require some version of therapy after a loss, in order for us to regain a sense of balance. Getting therapeutic support can be enormously helpful.
Remember, you don’t have to wait for a crisis to seek therapy. It is a proactive tool for emotional and personal growth. Just because you do not have a diagnosed mental condition does not mean therapy won’t be helpful.
If you are interested in making an appointment to speak to a mental health professional, feel free to schedule your free 15 minute consultation. At Thrope Therapy, we offer in-person and virtual sessions designed to meet you where you are. We look forward to hearing from you!
