It could be time to seek therapy if an issue causes distress or interferes with daily life. Distress can mean negative thoughts, feelings, behaviors, or even a bodily sensation such as pain or fatigue. It is important not to wait until symptoms become severe before going to therapy. It may be best to seek therapy if you are often unhappy or feel overwhelmed and helpless about issues in your life. Therapy can also help if you cannot focus at work or school, experience addiction, or feel like hurting yourself or someone else.

 

Some people may avoid treatment, and are there many reasons for this. Some of these reasons include:

• Worry about the stigma that can come with mental health care

• Feelings of shame when speaking about past hurts

• Not wanting to acknowledge that anything is wrong

• Feeling that discussions in treatment will not stay confidential

• Money issues

 

It might be helpful to remember that therapists are trained professionals who provide support and maintain confidentiality. They are used to helping people work through painful or embarrassing issues. Although the stigma surrounding mental health can still be an issue, more people are becoming comfortable with talking about their mental health options with those they trust.

Therapy can help treat mental, emotional, physical, and behavioral issues. Concerns that may be discussed in therapy include, but are not limited to:

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A trained therapist can help people make lifestyle changes. They can also help identify the underlying causes of symptoms and provide strategies for changing unwanted thoughts and behaviors. Therapy can equip people with the skills to manage symptoms, reduce stress, and improve their quality of life.