We all undergo some form of negative experience from time to time. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, relationship problems, or anything else. Under normal circumstances, we can recover or easily deal with these problems on our own. However, if these issues get out of hand and take a life of their own, they can become a serious hurdle for us.
Although it’s true that no one’s life is perfect. We all have some issues, but if these problems get so overwhelming that they start interfering with our day to day lives, then it could mean that things are not normal. In such cases when our mental health starts deteriorating, seeking therapy can be an excellent choice.
So, what are some signs that what you are experiencing is not alright and that you need professional help? Below is a list of 10 signs that it’s time to seek therapy.
1. You’re feeling on extremes
Everything you feel is intense. You don’t see a balance in your emotions anymore. Either you’re really happy for a short interval or you go into a downward spiral of sadness. Mostly, you’re dealing with negative emotions. Sadness, anxiety, or anger seem to have a more powerful pull on you as compared to other people. You are more prone to these problems and they happen at regular intervals.
2. You overthink a lot
You are having difficulty regulating your emotions. You cannot simply get over things. If something is bothering you, you keep obsessing over it to the point you can’t get it off your mind. You can’t focus on other things because of your overthinking. You cannot resist your temptations when it comes to overthinking. You often feel overwhelmed by your thoughts. You may also sometimes experience panic attacks because of this.
3. You’re not performing well
You’re getting bad feedback at your work or studies. You used to do things pretty well, but now you can’t manage to put your focus on things. Your emotional problems are getting in your way of work. Your performance has taken a hit. You feel disconnected from your studies or job, even if these things used to make you happy. Your managers or colleagues are giving you negative feedback about your performance. Your focus and attention also feel damaged.
4. You are used to substance abuse
Alcohol, smoking, or doing drugs seem too familiar to you. If you’re reaching out to these things more than usual, then it could mean that you are struggling to cope with something. You see drugs as an alternative to free your mind and escape from reality for a while. Even if such abuse is having negative impacts on your health, you still like to do them because you find comfort in them, and you are addicted.
5. Your relationships are suffering
You are having social withdrawal problems. You have isolated yourself from people you used to love. You feel distant and fear to be around people. You feel anxious in social situations. Your friends and family often comment on your behavior and show concerns. If your loved ones keep telling you that you don’t feel like your usual self, then it could be a strong indicator that you are in need of some professional guidance.
6. Nothing you do seems to help
You tried distracting yourself from your problems, but it does not work. You find some initial relief, but after some time you return to your normal problems. You tried reading self-help books or talking to your friends about how you feel, but it has no lasting effects on your condition. You often find yourself running in a loop and returning back to your symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, or other mental health conditions.
7. You no longer find things enjoyable
Things you previously liked doing are no longer fun anymore. You find that you don’t have the energy to participate in outdoor activities or do things that used to make you happy. If you played video games in the past, you find that they no longer bring the same amount of joy. You are less productive with your time. Even doing fun activities only seems like a chore and you don’t find the same level of enjoyment.
8. You keep repeating the same mistakes
Undergoing the same negative experience over and over again could justify that there are some deep-seated issues that are not resolved. Either you’ve been through a traumatic experience or there is something else at play. if you find yourself repeating the same mistakes over and over again, then it’s definitely a sign that you should seek a therapist for help.
9. You feel hopeless and miserable
You feel like there is no future for yourself. Nothing you do brings you joy. You often find yourself in a state of self-hatred. You feel a lack of confidence and motivation. You don’t see yourself in a good manner. It seems as if you cannot do anything like you once used to. Your painful emotions and thoughts are more dominant and you
10. You have thoughts of self-harm and suicide
This is one of the biggest indicators that you need therapy as soon as possible. Your negativity often becomes so overwhelming that you see no point in living. You cannot control your obsessive thinking and want to harm yourself or commit suicide. If you are having such thoughts, then it is highly advisable that you reach out to a friend, family, or seek a therapist right away.
The Takeaway
Mental health concerns are just as serious as physical issues. If your heart is not working right, you don’t ignore it. You got to a medical professional who knows the treatments and helps you get back on track. Similarly, therapy works in the same way. If you have any concerns with your personality, you should seek a therapist and it will help you see how important therapy can be for changing your life.
