Talk to a Counselor

Arguably, everyone can benefit from counseling because no one has perfect mental health. Spending time in counseling can increase any person’s level of awareness, healthy thought patterns and relationship abilities and it is recommended for anyone who is in a position to receive it. However, there are certainly some people who need it more than others. The more your mental health is ailing, the more need you have for professional counseling. Despite understanding what a counselor does and knowing that their services are available, it is not always easy to tell when your need from counseling has gone from optional to critical, which is why you should be aware of the signs that it is time to find a counselor.

• Unmanageable mood swings. If your moods are spiking and then dropping, or you are switching back and forth between passivity and anger, this could be a sign that you need counseling. It is likely that you are dealing with substantial life stress or you have an undiagnosed mental disorder.
• Persistent nightmares about being out of control. If you are being plagued by frightening nightmares, particularly ones where you are being pursued by something, this is a likely indicator that you feel out of control of your life. It could very well be time to talk to a counselor about what is happening in your life.
• Racing thoughts and obsessive behavior. If you are having difficulty shutting your brain off to the point that you cannot relax, or if you are fixating on something that you know should be trivial, it is wise to talk with a counselor about this.
• Substance abuse or addictive behavior. If there is a substance or a habit that is controlling you, find an addiction or substance abuse counselor to talk to.
• Debilitating fear or anxiety. If fear and worry is keeping you from reaching your potential, talk to a counselor to learn how to control your fear reflex.
• Recent or past trauma. Traumatic events, no matter how old or how recent, have a profound negative effect on our quality of life and always warrant counseling.
• Out of control anger. A bad temper and anger problems hurt your quality of life and the people around you. If you are angry too often, it is advised that you see a counselor.
• Lethargy, depletion and sadness. Feelings that make you drag your feet and want to give up are highly indicative of a number of disorders, both situational or deeply rooted. Seek counseling if these emotions are familiar and frequent to you.
• Any behavior that endangers yourself or those around you. If you are violent, physically or emotionally, to your self or to others, you urgently need counseling.