5 Ways to Know it’s Time for Therapy
Therapy is a huge commitment of your time, your money and your energy, so you want to make sure it’s something you actually need before you commit to it.
It’s easy to feel like you’re just being dramatic, or you just need to “pull yourself together.”
Wanting to see a therapist is reason enough to see one - you don’t need anyone else to confirm it to you.
But if you’re looking for some clear signs to help yourself make that decision, the KMA Therapy team is here to help.
After reading this article, you’ll know five clear signs that it's time to see a therapist.
5 Ways to Recognize it’s Time for Therapy
If you’ve been on the fence about starting therapy, these five signs can help you make up your mind.
1. You just don’t feel like yourself
Number one is that you just don't feel like yourself anymore.
It's normal to go through ebbs and flows in life, where some days you feel really great and some days feel awful.
But if you just haven't felt like the same person you used to be for a long time, it might be time to talk to someone.
Connecting with a therapist can help you understand what your goals are in life, guide you through re-examining your values, and help you set up coping mechanisms and strategies to support yourself.
2. You’re struggling with personal relationships
Number two is that your relationships are suffering, whether they’re your family relationships, your friendships, or even your romantic relationships.
It’s great to have a strong support system, and having people to lean on during difficult times is great for your mental health.
But if you’re finding yourself wanting to withdraw from the people you care about, or feel like you’re starting to pick arguments, it might be time for therapy.
Relationship challenges don’t mean you need to go to couples counselling - you might find your relationships start to improve after seeing a therapist on your own.
But if you’re curious about couples counselling, read Will Couples Counselling Help My Relationship?
3. You’re having trouble managing your emotions
Number three is that your emotions feel out of control.
It's normal for our emotions to come in waves, but they shouldn't feel like they're drowning you.
Speaking with a therapist can help you identify the triggers behind your emotions, provide coping mechanisms to help you experience your emotions without being overwhelmed by them, and help you feel like you’re back in control of your emotions.
4. You’re building your life around your mental health challenges
Number four is that you're changing aspects of your life to accommodate for the mental health challenges you're experiencing.
When you’re struggling with your mental health, it can be hard to find the motivation to go out and try new things. While this might only last a while, it can become more serious when your mental health stops you from doing things you already love.
If your mental health is stopping you from going out and doing the activities that you used to love, or you’re feeling too sad to go out and spend time with your friends, seeing a therapist can really be helpful.
5. You’re spending a lot of mental energy on your emotions and feelings
Number five is that you're spending a lot of time thinking about your thoughts and your emotions.
You might find yourself replaying every moment of your day, wondering what you could have done differently, or spend a lot of time wishing you felt different than you do.
These feelings can be confusing, so connecting with a therapist is a great way to find a sounding board to help you unravel complex thoughts.
Next Steps for Beginning Therapy
After reading this article, you know five ways to recognize that it’s time for therapy.
If any of these signs resonated with you, our team of therapists is here to help.
Register online to receive personalized next steps, or download our free Therapy 101 Guide to learn more about how therapy will work for you.
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