We all go through periods of sadness, fatigue, and stress, and it's not always clear when we should seek the help of a psychologist. It is critical to understand your limits, and if something is interfering with your ability to perform daily tasks, it is time to schedule a session.

Negative thoughts

How often or intensely do you feel sad or angry? Do you usually assume the worst-case scenario when an unforeseen event occurs? Anxiety and negative thoughts can have an impact on your life, causing you to avoid tasks or activities. Be attentive.

 

Have you suffered a loss and can't stop thinking about it?

The death of a family member, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a job can all have an impact on your daily performance. You may feel apathetic and want to isolate yourself because you are afraid no one will understand you, but maintaining social connections can help you get better.

Do you often have stomachaches, headaches, or a weakened immune system?

Your emotional state can have an impact on your physical health. Physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, frequent colds, or muscle aches can occur as a result of stress and emotional distress for no apparent reason.

Have you received any negative feedback at work?

Changes in work performance and productivity are common among those experiencing emotional problems. Feeling unmotivated in a job that used to make you happy, difficulties with attention and concentration, and negative feedback on the quality of your professional performance are all indicators that it's time to talk to a psychologist.

Have you lost interest in activities you used to enjoy?

If you enjoy running but find that putting on your sneakers is no longer appealing, or if your club, friends, or family meetings are no longer exciting, pay attention and try to figure out if this feeling is persistent. The inability to experience pleasure in activities that are generally regarded as pleasurable is a warning sign, and a psychologist can assist you in clarifying what is going on.

You no longer have the energy you once did

Do you feel exhausted and drained, with no desire to do anything? One of the most common symptoms of depression is fatigue, which is accompanied by frequent memory lapses and an inability to concentrate and make decisions.

Your relationships are strained

Do you have trouble identifying and communicating your emotions? If you are dissatisfied with your interactions with people you care about, and you want to improve your attitude and communication style, therapy may be right for you.

These are some of the signs that indicate you should see a psychologist. However, it is not necessary to have a problem to see a psychologist. You may simply want to improve some aspect of yourself, take care of your emotional health, and live a better life.

 

Cecilia Almeida, clinical psychologist

Sources

http://www.saudementalpt.pt
8 Signs you should see a therapist, retrieved 10/28/19 from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/8-signs-you-should-see-a_n_4718245 , Hoffpost, (December, 2017)