Mark Twain described therapy as an emotional journey that involves discovering oneself. The need for professional counseling and therapy services can often be difficult to recognize. It is important that if you think you might need help from a therapist or counselor, you take the first step by reaching out for advice from Improving Lives Counseling Services to learn how to begin your journey towards wellness. In this blog post, we will discuss some signs that may indicate the need for professional assistance in order to increase self-awareness and promote mental health wellness.
High Levels of Anxiety
If you have anxiety, it’s important to know that you are not alone. One in four adults experiences anxiety at some point during the year, and one in five teenagers struggles with an anxiety disorder. If your level of worry or fear is interfering with everyday life, if it seems impossible to quiet your mind for even a few moments, this might indicate anxiety. Anxiety can also be experienced as nausea, headaches, or insomnia.
If you feel that your anxiety is interfering with daily life activities and relationships, reaching out to a therapist could help uncover the root of this fear, so it doesn’t control your behavior.
Depression
Depression often goes unrecognized because its symptoms are all too common—a persistent feeling of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness. It is estimated that one in six adults will experience an episode of major depression at some point during their lifetime.
If you are experiencing the following symptoms consistently, it’s important to talk about them with someone who can provide professional help.
Suicidal Thoughts
Experiencing suicidal thoughts is a sign that immediate help from a professional counselor or therapist should be sought. This could be due to anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns—but it’s important to remember that these feelings are not the same as wanting to end your life permanently. If you feel hopeless and no longer see any reason for living, then please reach out for help.
Mental Health Disorders
Even if you’re not struggling with a mental health disorder like anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, there’s still a good chance that your behavioral patterns could indicate trouble ahead. If you feel like you’re not living life to the fullest or that something is off, it’s important to reach out for professional assistance.
If you are experiencing some of the following symptoms regularly, then please talk with someone who can help guide your journey towards wellness:
Changes in Appetite or Sleep Patterns
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns could result from high-stress levels, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. It’s important to keep in mind that these changes are not typically indicative of a more serious issue on their own—but it is something that an expert should address if they persist for an extended period of time.
Withdrawal from Family Members and Friends
If you find yourself withdrawing from family members or friends, this could signify that something is off. It’s important to know that the point of therapy isn’t to isolate oneself. Rather, it provides an opportunity for self-reflection and support from someone who understands what they’re going through.
Drug or Alcohol Abuse
Drug and alcohol abuse is always a sign that something is off. This could result from anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, but it’s important to remember that this behavior is not the same as seeking relief from these feelings.
If you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, then please reach out for professional help today. There is no shame in asking for assistance when you need it.