Everyone struggles from time to time, whether it’s due to work stress, relationship problems, family issues, or poor mental health. If you are currently struggling, it may be time for you to seek out a local therapist.
Signs You Could Benefit from Therapy
You are having inexplicable physical symptoms.
Many people do not realize that many mental health conditions come with physical symptoms. If you have seen a medical professional and all your tests are coming back negative, your doctor may suggest therapy for treatment. This is particularly true if you’re experiencing intestinal distress, as mental health and the digestive system are connected.
You feel stuck in a pattern of behavior.
You know your actions aren’t getting where you want to go, but you don’t know how to break the vicious cycle. If you are feeling trapped and unable to behave in a different, healthier way, talking to a therapist may help you. Whether it is staying in a toxic relationship, feeling trapped at an unsatisfying job, or using unhealthy coping mechanisms, it is possible to break negative patterns of behavior to live a healthier and happier life, and a therapist may help.
You feel out of control of your emotions.
Being more emotional than other people in your life doesn’t mean that you need therapy. However, these people can generally regulate their emotions to respond appropriately to situations. If you feel that you have no control over how you feel and it is causing problems, therapy may help you. For example, you might feel an overwhelming surge of rage over small inconveniences that has a negative impact on your relationships. If you’re feeling out of control emotionally, you may benefit in particular from cognitive behavioral therapy, which is designed to help with emotional regulation.
You’re unhappy with your life.
Things can’t always be perfect, and everyone experiences unhappiness with their circumstances from time to time. However, if you have a running dialogue in your head thinking about how you hate your life, or maybe even thoughts about how you would rather be dead, this means it is time to talk to a professional. A therapist can help you challenge those negative thought patterns and determine changes you can make in your life that will help you be happier.
You cope with alcohol or other drugs.
Drinking to cope with stress is common in our culture, but that doesn’t mean it’s healthy. If you are regularly using alcohol or other drugs to deal with your emotions, it’s a red flag that a deeper issue is lurking beneath the surface.
If there is any part of your life that causes distress that you feel hopeless about, there is no shame in reaching out for help. Professional therapists have helped millions of people work through their issues, and the right therapist may be able to help you as well.
About the Author
New Transitions Counseling Center offers cognitive behavioral therapy in Palatine, IL. We have a staff of dependable and affordable therapists who can help you with a variety of issues, from depression and anxiety to autism spectrum disorder to grief. If you are interested in learning whether we would be a good match, contact us for a free phone consultation.
