Many people wonder if they’d benefit from talking to a therapist. Over the last decade, the number of people who’ve visited a therapist has more than doubled, according to recent polls. Making the decision to see a therapist can be a proactive step towards personal growth and self-discovery as well as proven treatment for various mental health issues.
Many people feel like they’re caught in a storm, unable to find shelter. One in five American adults and one in six young people experience mental health issues yearly, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Therapy should be considered by people who experience persistent distress, have difficulty coping with emotions, develop unhealthy behavioral patterns, have low self-esteem, or are experiencing trauma and high stress.
Editor’s Note: This blog is not a substitute for professional consultations and medical advice. Always follow the guidance of a licensed mental health professional when it comes to your well-being. If you’re dealing with suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm, immediately contact the National Suicide Hotline at 988 for assistance.
Signs You Need Therapy
Research says one in 20 Americans faces serious mental health issues, and suicide is a leading cause of death in the U.S. There’s no reason to suffer in silence. You can empower yourself or a loved one to get the therapy treatment you need.
Let’s explore key indicators that it might be time to see a therapist.
Physical Symptoms
Physical issues often reveal underlying emotional or mental struggles. Therapy can provide ways to understand and manage these physical symptoms of an emotional issue. Here are some symptoms to consider:
- Heart Problems: Studies show that stress, depression, or anxiety can strain your heart and contribute to long-term health issues like heart disease. Therapy can offer coping mechanisms to lower this emotional strain.
- Chronic Fatigue: Are you always tired despite enough rest? Fatigue is often linked to mental health issues like depression. Therapy can address the root causes to improve both mental and physical health.
- Sleep Problems: Consistent sleep difficulties can point to deeper mental issues. Therapy can help you develop better sleep habits and address underlying stress or anxiety affecting your sleep.
- Digestive Concerns: Frequent stomachaches or bowel issues without a clear medical reason can indicate emotional distress. Harvard Health says the strong gut-brain connection can trigger mental health problems. Through therapy, you can understand how mental health impacts digestion and work on solutions.
- Headaches: Regular headaches or migraines intensifying with stress could signal a need for professional help. Therapy can provide stress management techniques to lessen the frequency and severity of headaches.
- Muscle Tension: Constant soreness without strenuous activity can be another red flag. Therapy can teach relaxation methods to alleviate muscle tension caused by psychological stress.
Emotional Signs
Your emotions can be the clearest sign you need professional mental help. Some key emotional indicators are:
- Persistent Sadness: You’ve been feeling down for weeks and can’t shake it off.
- Extreme Irritability: Minor annoyances make you disproportionately angry.
- Mood Swings: Rapid shifts in your emotional state without apparent reason.
- Anxiety Attacks: Sudden, intense feelings of dread and fear without cause.
- Feeling Overwhelmed: Even small tasks seem insurmountable, making you feel helpless.
Social Triggers
Changes in your social behavior might indicate a need for therapy. Look out for these signs:
- Withdrawal From Loved Ones: You avoid friends and family without clear reasons.
- Canceled Plans: You frequently make plans only to cancel them later.
- Relationship Strain: You’re experiencing tension and conflict in your close relationships.
- Isolation: You spend most of your time alone, avoiding social situations.
- Work or School Issues: You experience declining performance or increased conflicts at work or school.
10 Reasons to Go to Therapy
Navigating life’s ups and downs can be complex. Therapy is invaluable whether you’re grappling with ongoing stress, relationship issues and emotional turmoil, or feel like you aren’t reaching your full potential. Here are 10 reasons why seeking therapy could be the right step for you:
Self-Exploration
Therapy can help you understand your true motives, fears, and how you interact with the world. A therapist can help you unpack the root causes of depression or anxiety, whether they come from adverse childhood experiences or current stressors.
Goal Planning
Therapy isn’t a band-aid. It equips you with the skills to set and achieve life-changing goals. This proactive approach can help with exciting life transitions like career changes or family planning.
Managing Relationships
Juggling family, friends, and romantic partnerships can be overwhelming. A psychologist or therapist provides unbiased, professional guidance to improve the quality of your interactions.
Whole-Body Wellness
Your emotional health directly impacts your physical well-being. Therapists can teach stress management techniques that ease your mind and improve your body’s health.
Scientifically-Proven Methods
Benefit from evidence-based approaches rigorously tested for effectiveness, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety or stress management.
A Secure Environment
Your privacy and comfort are non-negotiable. Therapists offer a confidential, judgment-free setting where you can express yourself freely.
Convenience
Seeing a therapist is easier than ever with the availability of telehealth options. Choose a modality that fits your lifestyle, be it online or in-person.
Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Transform how you deal with life challenges. From anxiety and depression to substance abuse, therapy offers healthier alternatives for coping with negative emotions.
Addressing Grief
Loss can manifest in various ways and impact all aspects of your life. Therapy can be a resource to help you navigate the complexities of grief, whether it’s due to a loved one’s death or other life-altering events.
Overcoming Trauma
Past traumatic events can linger and disrupt your present. Techniques like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can provide significant relief.
What Type of Therapist Should I See?
If you’ve found a reason that resonates with you and are convinced that therapy could benefit you or a loved one, the next critical step is determining who to consult. Here are some professionals you can consider based on different needs:
- Clinical Social Workers: Specializing in psychotherapy and community support, licensed clinical social workers are often the go-to for mild stress or anxiety. A could be a suitable choice for your needs.
- Psychologists: A psychologist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) could be your best fit for more complex emotional or mental issues. Studies note that CBT is the current gold standard of psychotherapy.
- Specialized Therapists: For unique issues like trauma or addiction, therapists specializing in these areas are your go-to.
Deciding on the right therapist is a positive, crucial step toward better mental health. Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure the best match for your unique needs.
How to Find the Right Therapist in 8 Steps
You’ve recognized the signs and decided it’s time for therapy. Follow these steps to find the right therapist for you.
- Know Your Goals: Decide what you want out of therapy, whether it’s dealing with anxiety or improving relationships. Embrace Health has a variety of methods to help you reach those goals.
- Pick the Right Expert: Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Determine if you need a psychologist, counselor, or other mental health professional to guide you.
- Choose Your Setting: Whether you’re more comfortable online or face-to-face, pick a setting that matches your preferences. Embrace Health offers in-person and virtual sessions to fit your lifestyle.
- Check Your Coverage: Understanding insurance coverage can be a headache. Don’t worry, though, Embrace Health can walk you through what’s covered and what’s not.
- Do Your Research: Use the internet or tap into personal recommendations to find potential therapists. Embrace Health also has a list of qualified professionals to make your search easier.
- Try a Test Run: Arrange for an initial conversation with a prospective therapist. Many professionals, including those at Embrace Health, offer a no-commitment consultation to ensure a good fit.
- Gather More Input: Don’t settle for the first opinion–collect a few. The more information you have, the better you’ll feel about your final choice.
- Be Clear from the Start: Immediately clarify your expectations with your therapist. Knowing what you hope to accomplish and how your therapist can help will make your sessions more effective.
Finding the right therapist is a crucial step in your mental health journey. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to make an informed choice.
Taking the Step to Seek Therapy
When you recognize any of these physical, emotional, or social signs—or even if you’re just eager for personal growth—therapy is a game-changer. The decision to pursue therapy is a positive, empowering move towards a healthier you and better relationships.
Why Embrace Health is Your Best Choice
When it comes to therapy, one size does not fit all. That’s why Embrace Health offers a range of specialties tailored to meet your individual needs. Whether it’s online or in-person, we’ve got you covered.
Click here for more information about individual therapy options.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Want to get in touch? Email us at [email protected], call us at (515) 612-9583, or send us a message.
