How To Know When You Need Help With Your Mental Health

Everyone has tough days and runs into challenging situations sometimes; it’s normal to feel a variety of emotions in response to the challenges life throws your way. So how can you tell whether it’s time to seek help with your mental health, or if what you’re experiencing is totally normal? Well, the truth is that there’s never any harm in going to counseling or therapy; there are many ways that just about everyone can benefit from mental health services.

But if you’re wondering whether you should seek help due to a potential mental health disorder, look for the signs below.

1. Your normal habits have changed

Maybe you used to have no problem eating moderate portions and a healthy diet overall, but lately you just can’t seem to stop eating. Or perhaps you used to be able to drop off to sleep within seconds, but now you lie awake looking at the ceiling for hours each night. It’s possible that your personality even seems to have changed; you’re more sensitive than you used to be, or you don’t feel quite as outgoing or friendly as you once did. Any marked changes in the area of eating patterns, sleeping patterns, or personality can indicate an underlying mental health problem that’s negatively impacting your life.

2. You find it difficult to get through the day

It may seem like suddenly you just don’t have the mental capacity to cope with the kinds of small daily problems that used to be manageable. You may also feel withdrawn or disconnected as you move through your day. Beginning to struggle with responsibilities at work or at home can also be part of this general inability to cope with your typical daily activities.

3. You’ve been self-medicating

If you’ve been trying to handle difficult emotions by using various substances like alcohol or drugs, it’s a good idea to see a mental health professional. Substance misuse can be very detrimental to your mental health, as well as dangerous to your physical health.

4. Your moods are unpredictable

If you feel happy one minute, sad the next, and can’t seem to figure out why your mood changes so frequently, it’s best to get help with your mental health so that you can gain more control over your emotions. A free psychologist may be helpful, or you can take a look at various online counseling platforms for affordable services.

5. It seems like you’ve felt down for a long time

A prolonged feeling of sadness or apathy often points to depression.

6. You’re worried about everything

Excessive anxiety, especially concerning everyday things that didn’t trouble you in the past, may be an indicator of an anxiety disorder.

7. You’re feeling excessively angry

If you’re having trouble controlling your anger, especially if you’re engaging in hostility or violent behavior towards others, it’s best to contact a mental health professional and schedule a session as soon as possible.

8. You’ve had suicidal thoughts

If you’re having suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. Know that the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is always available at 1-800-273-8255 for help and support.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it; you deserve to feel happy, mentally stable, and capable of handling everything life has to offer you!