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Do you ever feel overwhelmed?

Overwhelmed by feelings of sadness or worry? Overwhelmed by issues with a loved one? 

Overwhelmed by health concerns?

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If so, you're not alone.

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According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than a quarter of American adults experience depression, anxiety or another mental disorder in any given year. Others need help coping with a serious illness and stress. Still others struggle to cope with relationship troubles, job loss, the death of a loved one, or other issues. And these problems can often become overwhelming and even debilitating.

 

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between an individual and a psychotherapist.  Psychotherapy provides a supportive environment that allows you to talk openly with someone who is objective, neutral and nonjudgmental. Together with a therapist you will work to identify and change the thought and behavior patterns that are keeping you from feeling your best. Through therapy, not only will you work to solve the problem that brought you in, but you will learn new skills so you can better cope with whatever challenges arise in the future.

 

Signs that you could benefit from therapy include:

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You feel an overwhelming, prolonged sense of helplessness and sadness.

 

Your problems don't seem to get better despite your efforts and help from family and friends.

 

You find it difficult to concentrate on school or work assignments or to carry out other everyday activities.

 

You worry excessively, expect the worst or are constantly on edge.

 

Your actions are harming your relationships.

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When should you consider psychotherapy?

Because of the many misconceptions about psychotherapy, you may be reluctant to try it out. Even if you know the realities instead of the myths, you may feel nervous about trying it yourself.

Overcoming that nervousness is worth it. That’s because any time your quality of life isn’t what you want it to be, psychotherapy can help.

Some people seek psychotherapy because they have felt depressed, anxious or angry for a long time. Others may want help for a chronic illness that is interfering with their emotional or physical well-being. Still others may have short-term problems they need help navigating. They may be going through a divorce, facing an empty nest, feeling overwhelmed by a new job or grieving a family member's death, for example.

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Adapted from http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/understanding-psychotherapy