Is Therapy For Me?
Category: Misc.
We live in world that has become extremely fast-paced, and it’s become more and more difficult to juggle unrealistic work and home life demands. We frequently have to deal with high levels of daily stress, which can have negative effects on our physical and mental health.
Many of our most common physical ailments, such as headaches, digestive problems, high blood pressure, insomnia, and an impaired immune system, can in many cases be attributed to stress. The same is true for many of our psychological issues, including anger, irritability, depression, and anxiety.
Topic Of Discussion
Signs You Might Need Therapy:
1. You’re eating and sleeping habits have changed. Either you’re getting too much or not enough of either. Either can be detrimental.
2. You no longer enjoy the things that you used to. Maybe you aren’t so zen in yoga class anymore and start skipping them. Or Sunday tee-time just isn’t giving you the joy it did before.
3. Your emotions are turned up to 10! You may find yourself crying in the bathroom at work (more than usual)? Or instead of just murmuring curse words at the driver who cut you off, you actually try to start a fight with them.
4. Social situations are starting to become nonexistent. You don’t want your friends to stop inviting you to get-togethers, but every RSVP is left unchecked.
5. Unhealthy habits are becoming problematic. We automatically think of drinking and drug use when this comes up. But this could also involve excessive shopping, excessive dieting, risky behaviors, etc.
6. Your relationships aren’t what they used to be. Arguments with your spouse. Snapping at your children. Ignoring your friend’s phone calls and texts.
7. Something horrible happened. You’ve experienced a trauma that has shaken you to your core. Trauma isn’t just for combat soldiers. A car accident, affair, loss of a loved one, or anything you feel is traumatic – is trauma.
8. You’re unsure of who you are. Understanding ourselves better can help us break maladaptive patterns of behavior or allow us to give ourselves more grace.
9. Your support network is diminished or nonexistent. Everyone needs someone to talk and process with. Therapy is a great place to receive the validation and support that you deserve.
10. Nothing else has helped. You’ve tried exercising. You’ve tried meditation. You even tried reading that crazy self-help book your Aunt recommended. But, nothing seems to give you relief.
Sometimes we can handle these challenges on our own or with the help of friends and family members we trust. But what about when these feelings become so overwhelming that they seem to weigh you down? Who do you turn to then?
If any or all of these are ringing a bell, then it may be time to consider finding a therapist.
Not All Therapy Is The Same
Therapy is a common treatment for a number of mental health conditions, but it can also help with day-to-day challenges and concerns.
Not all therapy is the same, and not all therapists offer the same services in the same way. And, contrary to popular belief, not all therapists have a chaise lounge or couch in their office for you to lie on.
Therapy can be one-on-one, in a group setting, or done as a family. If face-to-face therapy isn’t the best option for you, there are options for online therapy.
There are many therapeutic approaches depending on your unique needs. A few common therapy approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Brainspotting (BSP)
- Couples/Family Therapy
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Person Centered Therapy
Therapy can be effective for a variety of situations. A 2019 review found that therapy was helpful across several problem areas. The review also suggested that routine therapy was especially helpful for those who had severe distress.
How effective therapy is for you will depend on you, your unique needs, and how much work you do between and during sessions. You can also see a therapist for just a few sessions or longer, depending on your needs.
Let’s Recap
No matter the topic, there’s no reason to be ashamed of seeking additional help and support. Therapy can offer a safe space for you to talk and just be yourself.
Therapy can help you work through the stress you’re dealing with at home, work, and school. Finding yourself stuck in a rut and not really motivated? Therapy can help with that too.
If you are considering starting therapy, schedule an appointment with Tri-Star Counseling. Tri-Star Counseling offers therapy services in Johnson City, Tennessee and online therapy across Tennessee.
