When is the Right Time to Seek Help from Therapists?
The answer is sooner rather than later. If you are unhappy and feel emotionally overwhelmed, you may have already been to see your family doctor. You may have joined a self-help group. But if your problems continue to mount, professional help probably is the best form of treatment for you.
But when is the right time to make that first appointment? Put it this way, leaving it till tomorrow may mean your problems get even worse. Maybe your stress and suffering could cause you to lose your job, or your marriage could slide further into trouble. If you are depressed, professional help is what is required.
There are many examples of difficult times in one’s life so working with a therapist is highly recommended. If you find yourself in a difficult situation, you should seriously consider seeking help from a therapist.
Marriage problems. You could be in a difficult relationship, you could be separated or are facing separation, or have been through a nasty divorce. Your emotional stability will be called into question and professional help could make a huge difference to your health.
Employment difficulties. In the recent financial turmoil, many people have lost their job or are in danger of being made redundant. If you have financial commitments then even the prospect of losing your job can create stress and emotional turmoil. Sessions with a therapist can provide a path to emotional security.
Family issues. Many parents face concerns with children, especially teens, who mix with the wrong crowd, are tempted with drug and alcohol issues or clash with their teachers and find their grades slipping. Obviously professional help for the teen is a logical move to make but many parents are in need of help in these situations. The time to seek professional help is when the pressure of helping your own child becomes too hard to bear.
Death or serious illness. Seeing a friend or loved one suffer through a prolonged serious illness can be debilitating. Caring for that person means the carer may well need help as well. Such a time, and following a death, is when you should consider seeking time with a therapist.
Disorders. Eating disorders or mood wings are often treated by health professionals but time in therapy can be a valued part of any treatment. The depression which may accompany weight problems is an added burden which is never welcome. At the time, therapy can be a significant help.
Obviously if you are in an abusive environment, you need help immediately. The abuse must stop. Sometimes the form of the abuse can be mental and cause great angst. Do not allow this situation to continue. Seek professional help immediately and give therapy the chance to get yourself back on your feet.
The above situations are not unusual. The one thing which is common to all issues is the timing when seeking help from a therapist. It’s difficult to be too early in seeking help but it is easy to delay and procrastinate. You owe it to yourself to take care of yourself and seeking help from a therapist is one matter over which you have control.
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