
WWhen it comes to going to therapy, people seem to have a lot of misconceptions. Probably the most common one is that you need to have a serious mental health problem to go to a therapist. Most people think that going to therapy means that you have a serious mental health illness. However, the reality is way different, going to therapy means recognising that you are not feeling mentally well, and you need support. It is similar to going to the doctor when you do not feel well physically. An additional reason why people are hesitant in going to therapy is the stigma surrounding people that see a therapist. Some people are ashamed to say that they see a therapist or that they want to see one, because they feel that people will judge them or start seeing them in a different way. As a result, people will keep ignoring their symptoms and make themselves believe that whatever they are feeling will go away as the time goes.
Feeling overwhelmed
Usually when we feel overwhelmed, we tend to overlook it and just shut our emotions down. Most of the times it works, but the effects are short lived and those emotions we suppress end up re-emerging elsewhere.
Getting sick frequently
Mental and physical health are interconnected, so if you are experiencing physical symptoms and there is no apparent cause, then that might be your sign to check up with your emotions. High levels of stress can cause body pains, digestive issues, weak immunity, and sleep problems.
Using alcohol as a coping mechanism
Using alcohol as a coping mechanism to make your mood better is concerning and is a strong indicator that you need to check up with a professional.
Having difficulty concentrating and being less productive
If you find it difficult to concentrate on simple tasks like reading a book or you struggle keeping up with your daily routine, then you should consider investigating the reasons why. It might be a sign that you are tired but in a long term it can be an indicator of a mental issue.
Not being excited about things you used to
If you stop feeling excited about things in the way you used to, then it is time for you to focus on your mental health. Usually losing interest or feel no pleasure when doing activities that you enjoy can be a symptom of depression.
Your family and friends are concerned
If your family and friends have been telling you that they are concerned about your mental health; then you should listen to them and try to find out why. Even if you feel fine, checking up with a professional and ensuring that everything is fine is always a good idea.
You isolate yourself
Isolation can be a symptom of anxiety and depression. If you have been isolating yourself and not meeting your loved ones, that can be an indicator that you need to check your mental health.
Experiencing unexplained changes in weight
Stress can cause people to overeat while depression can make you lose your appetite. If you have notice a change in your eating patterns, then it is worth checking the reasons of the change.
Having problems with your relationships
It is normal for people to experience issues in their relationships and have fights from time to time. However, if you find yourself in intense love affairs that end up badly or you constantly fight with your partner, then it is worth exploring the reasons this is happening.
Having sleeping problems
Usually, insomnia is considered just the inability to sleep at night, though it can be waking up several time during the night or waking up early and being unable to sleep. In any case, sleeping difficulties such as insomnia can indicate a problem in your mental health.
Remember, whatever challenges you’re going through, whether you’re experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, or going through other issues in certain areas of your life, you don’t have to struggle on your own. Therapy can help you to work through your difficulties in a safe and highly compassionate setting, empowering you to regain control.
Anxiety UK
03444 775 774 (helpline)
07537 416 905 (text)
Beat
0808 801 0677 (adult helpline)
0808 801 0711 (youth line)
0808 801 0811 (student line)
Samaritans
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