Have you considered tackling your disturbing thoughts, emotions, and habits with therapy? According to a 2022 State of American Health report, Ohio ranked 25th in the index, a sure indicator of rapidly declining mental health indicators.
If you live in Columbus, you clearly need to acquire the services of a top Columbus therapist. But then, how do you know whether you need therapy?
Read on to find out.
Reasons to consider therapy
There are various reasons why therapy could be just what you need.
Something you could benefit from is seeing a professional online or face to face who can help you with your mental health.
Anxiety
If you're experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, therapy may be what you need.
Trauma
If you're going through trauma and PTSD and need to talk about it, get professional help.
Stress
When you’re stressed out, it can affect your short-term concentration and ability to focus at work. At this stage, you should consider getting a therapist to help you manage the resulting long-term stress.
To cope with life-changing/health events
To cope with life-changing events like relationship issues, relocations, the loss of a close relative or loved one, you need the services of a great therapist.
Also, if you have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, you need expert help to cope with your symptoms.
Finally, you should also consider therapy when you have personal issues you don't feel comfortable sharing with just anyone.
Now that you've decided that you need therapy, here are the steps to adhere to:
Contact your primary care physician
The first stage is getting in touch with your doctor, for relevant referrals. It is their place to suggest to you the best psychiatrists and therapists for your condition.
Be honest with your therapist
Undergoing therapy is most successful when you are 100% honest with your therapist. Being vulnerable can be difficult, but opening up and addressing your fears and concerns with a non judgemental professional can help you negotiate your own self imposed barriers.
Ask questions
You need to have an excellent rapport with your therapist for the best results. It begins with you. Don’t be shy to ask questions about the therapy process and your symptoms.
Your therapist will only be too glad to give due guidance and constructive feedback.
Find the right Columbus, OH therapist
You might not feel that connection crucial for recovery with the first therapist you contact. And that’s normal.
It’s fine to try out different therapists until you find the one you’re comfortable with. However, give the therapist a chance and do a few sessions before moving on.
Be patient
Therapy isn’t a quick fix; it requires patience to yield the best result. While it may not seem like you’re progressing in the first few sessions, give it time, and you’ll find things becoming better with time.
At what stage should I do therapy?
It may take you a while to decide on therapy. You can monitor your lifestyle changes, habits and see if you change with time.
Family and friends may play a huge role in improving your struggles through emotional support or other factors to see if you get better.
We suggest you consider a time to see a professional Columbus therapist when something causes distress and interferes with some part of your life, especially when:
The issue has reduced your quality of life.
Your worries cause you embarrassment in public.
Thinking about or coping with the issue takes up at least an hour each day.
If you feel disproportionate rage or resentment most times.
You suffer from fatigue which may indicate depression.
Being worried or disturbed about things you have no control over.
Being overwhelmed because you possibly have too many issues to deal with at once.
The problem has negatively affected interpersonal relationships, work, school, and other important activities.
You have made major changes in your life and lack healthy coping skills.
Suppose you are ready for a new you, imagine stepping into comfort and good health.
Matt McTeague is a professional Columbus, OH therapist that can help you lead a productive and happier life using proven therapeutic interventions to identify and treat issues. Get help today!