How to Tell if it’s Time for Professional Help
July 29, 2016
Caregiver in Cranberry Twp. PA
Some might say that even wondering if you should talk to a counselor or therapist means that it is in fact time to do so, but that isn’t always the hard and fast answer. If you’re experiencing any of
these situations, however, you might want to find a therapist or counselor with whom you can work regularly.
You’re Relying on Crutches More Often than Ever
One of the most obvious ways to know that it’s time to get help from a professional is that you’re relying on outside crutches more frequently than you used to. These types of crutches could be that evening nightcap that has turned into two or even three or sleeping pills to get through the night. The reason that this can be dangerous is that you might start out using these types of crutches only now and then, but they can’t help all the time and at the same level consistently. Gradually, they increase in both amount and frequency until you develop other problems.
You’re Not Giving Yourself Proper Self-care
If you’re not eating right, not exercising, and just otherwise not caring for yourself properly, you may be developing depression or other problems. While you can snap yourself out of this by looking at your self-care and correcting whatever is off kilter, sometimes you don’t necessarily see what the problem is on your own. Talking to someone else can help you to find the underlying cause and put a plan in place that works for you.
You’re Feeling Depressed or Alienated from Everyone Around You
Being a family caregiver can mean that you’re isolated at times, but too much isolation can lead to feeling alienated from everyone that you know. You may start to feel that no one understands you or what you’re going through and that can lead to depression. Having a professional to talk with can help you relearn how to relate to the other people in your life.
You’re Feeling a General Loss of Control
It’s not uncommon at all to feel a loss of control as a family caregiver because there are plenty of situations that are well outside your control. When you start to feel that you’re losing control of yourself either physically or emotionally, however, that can be a dangerous time. Working with a professional can help you to determine why you’re having these feelings and how to manage them in a more healthy manner.
If any of these apply to you, it’s probably a good idea to seek out a professional therapist or counselor to help you manage your stress.