Knowing when to seek help is not always easy, and we often tend to wait until we’re at the end of our tether to ask for help. There are several reasons for this. Firstly, we tend to believe that we can do it all on our own, and many people still see asking for help as a sign of weakness.
We don’t hesitate to consult a doctor for physical health problems, but when it comes to our mental health, it’s often less obvious. Yet mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s essential to take care of our emotional well-being.
As a healthcare professional, I want to share some valuable information with you to help you recognise the signs to know when professional help is needed.
Here are some indications that you may need to consult a psychologist.
If you are experiencing persistent emotional distress such as deep sadness, constant anxiety, excessive irritability, difficulty concentrating, loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy, and these feelings persist over time, it is time to seek help.
Additionally, if you’re experiencing difficulties in your relationships, this can have an impact on your psychological health. . Problems with communication, trust, or conflict management can affect your relationships with those around you. If you are experiencing relationship difficulties that seem insurmountable, or are repetitive, working with a psychologist can help you to understand the underlying relationship issues, as well as enable you to develop strategies and skills to improve your relationships with others. Major changes such as life transitions, separations and bereavements are also likely to cause stress and difficulties in adapting.
If you notice any changes in your mood, thoughts, behaviour, as well as sleep problems, loss of motivation, lack of appetite, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, excessive fatigue or suicidal thoughts, consult us as soon as possible.
In conclusion, it is important to consult a psychologist when you experience persistent emotional distress, difficulties in your interpersonal relationships, major changes in your life, changes in your behaviour or mood, or when you feel overwhelmed by stress and anxiety. Remember that mental health is part of your overall health and, above all, that you are not alone.
Don’t hesitate to share this article with your friends and family, as it’s essential to make others aware of the importance of mental health.
Talking makes a difference.
Nancy Boisvert, M.P.S., Psychologist