It can be difficult to know when to seek help for mental health challenges.
Many of us brush off the symptoms we’re feeling as ‘just having a bad day’ or ‘feeling stressed out’.
Know that mental health issues can affect anyone at any time and there’s no shame in seeking treatment. Getting help is the best thing you can do to improve your overall well-being.
With 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiencing mental illness each year, you’re not alone in how you’re feeling. Therapy is a wonderful tool to learn coping skills and have a safe outlet to express yourself.
We’ve outlined some signs to watch out for if you’ve found yourself wondering if you need to speak to a mental health professional.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 immediately.
How do you know you need therapy?
Chances are, if you’re asking this question, the answer is that you could use some support.
Some signs you need therapy include:
1. You’re struggling to manage your emotions
It’s normal to feel a certain amount of stress in your day to day life. But if you find yourself persistently feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, and can’t seem to get a handle on things, it may be time to reach out to someone.
If your stressful or anxious moments are lingering and becoming more intense, something like talk therapy can be useful to get to the root of these emotions.
2. You’re sleeping too much or too little
Are your thoughts racing at night to the point where they’re keeping you awake, or do you find yourself being exhausted even after more sleep than usual? This can be a huge red flag for mental health issues.
It’s a vicious circle. Stress and anxiety can lead to insomnia. These sleepless nights then affect your energy levels, your concentration, and your ability to manage your emotions.
3. You’ve noticed changes in your appetite
In difficult times, it’s common to turn to comfort foods or even find that our appetite has almost disappeared completely.
Noticeable changes in your weight can indicate a declining emotional state and are often a sign you could use some support.
4. You’re avoiding other people
Withdrawing from social situations and isolating is something lots of us do when we’re not feeling our best. We may think coping on our own is best, or we don’t want to trouble others with how we’re feeling.
While avoiding other people might feel like it’s helping in the short term, it’s not a healthy behavior in the long run. The more we isolate ourselves, the more alone and disconnected we can feel.
5. You’re losing interest in things you love
It’s normal for life to get in the way sometimes making it difficult to prioritize things you enjoy doing. But consistently being disinterested in activities you once loved is a sign that your mental health may be slipping.
Depression or grief can often cause a disinterest in life, hobbies, and the future and should be addressed as soon as possible.
6. Using substances to cope
In stressful times, it’s not unusual for people to use drugs or alcohol to cope. These substances release dopamine into the brain, temporarily relieving any emotional distress, anxiety, or negative thoughts.
Relying on substances can cause dependence and addiction, worsening any existing mental illnesses.
If you recognize yourself in any of these symptoms, support is available. There are trained professionals ready to help you break free from unhealthy habits and negative thinking so you can begin improving your overall well-being.
Benefits of seeking therapy
Therapy can give you a judgment-free zone to express your thoughts and feelings with a compassionate and objective professional. Deciding to see a therapist is the first step in prioritizing yourself and your mental health treatment. It can feel scary to reach out to someone, but the right therapist can provide guidance.
Effective therapy can improve your life in countless ways, including:
- Improved communication skills: Good communication will benefit every area of your daily life. Learning to communicate in a productive way will improve relationships, help you navigate conflict, and give you confidence when dealing with others.
- Increased self-awareness: When you learn more about how your past has shaped you into the person you are today, you can recognize how your behavior can affect yourself and others. Your therapist can help you to manage triggers for your emotions in a healthy way.
- Develop coping strategies: Think of the skills you’ll learn in therapy as having your own mental health toolbox. If you feel your mood dropping again, you’ll be able to use the appropriate tool for the situation and get through it.
Are you ready to put yourself first and try therapy, but aren’t sure where to begin? Here’s how you can get started on finding the right therapist for you.
Getting started with therapy
There are a few steps to take when searching for a therapist:
- Ask friends and family for recommendations. Getting first-hand accounts from those you trust can be a useful starting point in finding the right person for you.
- Search online for qualified therapists in your area, and be sure to check reviews.
- Don’t settle for the first therapist you meet! While you could strike gold and find your perfect match on the first go, don’t be afraid to try multiple therapists until you feel like you’ve found the one for you.
Take the next step towards a happier and healthier you
With Region Five, you can find a qualified therapist for your needs, no matter what your schedule or budget looks like.
Access mental health resources through the Region Five Community Service Board (CSB) in your area. All of our CSBs offer online services so you can get the support you need from anywhere, at any time.
Remember, you’re never alone in your struggle with mental health issues. Help is always available, all you have to do is reach out.