Everyone Can Benefit from Therapy
Traditionally, mental health counseling or therapy has focused on illness. Today, many professionals (including myself) see therapy and counseling as extremely beneficial for people who would not fall under the traditional medical model of being "disordered".We all know that life stressors and difficult circumstances are not unique to any one person or group of people. Many people have struggled with depressive symptoms at least once in their life even if they may not have met the diagnostic criteria for a condition like Major Depressive Disorder. While therapy can be extremely beneficial for people who require professional support, therapy can also be helpful if you agree with any of the following statements:
I want more out of life.
I'm unsatisfied with my career and unsure what next steps to take.
Sometimes it's hard to speak to my partner about how I'm feeling.
My relationship is in trouble and I'm considering ending it.
I want more joy and peace in life.
Sometimes I feel confused about who I am or where I'm headed in life.
I've been having a hard time following the death of a loved one.
I want to understand myself better to help improve my relationships.
These statements in and of themselves are not indicators that one is suffering from some mental health condition. But if any of these resonated with you and the support you have been receiving from friends and loved ones isn't producing the results that you want, then it may be time to seek out a therapist who can help you explore options for a more fulfilling quality of life.Everyone can benefit from therapy. A good therapist can help you explore some of the concerns listed above in a supportive and safe environment that's designed to meet your unique needs and goals. If this sort of personal development interests you, take some time to do an internet search for therapists in your area who can meet with you personally and collaborate with you on your next steps.
6 Signs it's time to See a Therapist
Some people think it may be obvious when someone needs extra support in terms of therapy or professional counseling, but sometimes it isn't always so clear. Below are a list of signs that may indicate it might be time to pick up the phone and call a local therapist:
Your loved one suggests it
Loved ones or family members can be crucial in helping their loved one get the support they need. Others perspectives of us can be very helpful in identifying patterns of behavior or other issues that we may not be seeing ourselves. If you're a loved one and want to speak to your partner, friend or family member about seeking professional counseling, be sure to speak from a place of concern and use "I statements" to help soften the blow. Hearing that kind of feedback can be tough so always try to take a sympathetic stance when expressing your concerns.
You find yourself more forgetful or confused
When faced with extreme stress, depression or a host of other circumstances, frequent forgetfulness and confusion are indicators that there may be too much going on for you at the moment. This could come in the form of forgetting to pick up your kids from school or something as small as not remembering the items you needed to pick up at the grocery store. If you find yourself routinely falling into this new pattern, then it might be time to get some help.
You're having problems at work
Have you recently been written up after being thought of as a "good employee"? Do you find yourself unmotivated to complete your assigned tasks? Do you keep missing deadlines? All of these are indications that your circumstances might be getting the best of you.
Your relationships are suffering
If you find yourself arguing with your partner more often or feeling disconnected from your children or family, then it might be time to speak to a professional. If you're single, are you unhappy with your dating or sexual life? Then it might be time to get help. A professional can lend a supportive ear and help guide you in creating better relationships or maintaining those you wish to hold on to. Working with a therapist can help you explore your behaviors, patterns and come up with concrete strategies that you can try to take an empowered approach to your relationships.
Your finances are off
If you're having trouble managing your money suddenly, then therapy might be a good fit. Are you gambling money away or racking up credit card debt due to shopping sprees here and there? Are you not paying your rent or mortgage on time? These are serious signs that you may need the support of a professional to help you manage before things really get out of control.
You don't feel well
You are the expert of your own mind and body. If you find yourself feeling "off" lately, then therapy is likely a good fit for you. Everything from ongoing fatigue to excessive worry and feeling "stuck" are all good indicators that a new intervention is needed. It might be time to switch it up! Find a therapist who can help guide you into a new way of being.
While this is not an exhaustive list by any means, I hope this list has armed you with the knowledge of some of the indicators that counseling or therapy might be a good fit for you. Counseling isn't just reserved for extreme situations or illnesses, it can be helpful to all of us. There's no shame in reaching out and getting some extra support as you work through some of life's challenges. We all need that from time to time. And you never know, it may turn out to be the best decision you've ever made for yourself.
Contact Viva if you are interested in getting started with therapy.