You see frequently in advice columns where it is recommended to seek counseling or some kind of professional therapy for a host of human behavior problems.  But how do you decide, when it comes to your own personal situation, when and if it’s time to for you to seek professional help?
One factor to look at is if your usual mechanisms for coping or problem solving are not working, it’s time to seek help elsewhere.  Other signs to look at are the use of substances or sex or food for comfort with an increase in cravings. If any substances or destructive behaviors are controlling you, it’s time to seek help.  Also, there are some natural ways to combat light depression and anxiety, such as herbal remedies for anxiety and depression, but counseling is always recommended by doctors if your issues warrant therapy.

A huge red flag is constantly being unhappy, depressed or with suicidal thoughts.  Uncontrolled anger at friends, co-workers or family members is another sign of psychological trouble. Sometimes, for a major loss such as a death of a loved one, the end of a relationship or the loss of a job, it is necessary to seek counseling.  Major traumas such as being a victim of a crime, sexual or emotional abuse or a life threatening or chronic illness can often be handled better with the professional help of counseling.
Experiencing a loss of interest in things that usually interest you, a loss of appetite or a sense of despair that is ongoing are other signs that you could benefit from professional help.  Anxiety that keeps you from functioning in life and prevents you from doing things that you would enjoy is another sign for needing help.  If your anxiety keeps you from going to parties, dating, getting a job or meeting new people, it’s time to get professional help.
Another sign that you could benefit from psychological help is if you experience physical symptoms of illnesses and doctors are unable to find a physiological cause.  Symptoms such as headaches, gastric distress or fatigue can be rooted in emotional issues that psychotherapy can help you recognize and cope with it.  It’s hard to be objective about yourself and your own behavior.   Often, we want to “tough it out” or think it’s just a phase.  Looking at a list of signs and symptoms can help you differentiate where you could benefit from professional help.

This entry was posted on Friday, June 27th, 2008 at 9:57 am and is filed under Natural Depression & Anxiety Relief. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.