Mental health is often viewed as a taboo topic, and many people feel reluctant to seek counseling for fear of being judged or misunderstood by others. However, it’s important to remember that your mental health is just as key to your overall well-being as your physical health is, so seeking professional assistance for issues such as anxiety or clinical depression is nothing to be ashamed of.
Let’s discuss some common distress signals that may indicate it’s time to seek help from a licensed professional counselor, and where you can go in Atlanta and Alpharetta to see an experienced therapist or family counselor.
What Are the Mental Health Distress Signals?
If you or someone you love is experiencing any of the following signs or symptoms, it may be time to seek counseling from a licensed family counselor:
- You’re withdrawn and isolated from family and friends.
- You’re struggling to cope with everyday tasks and responsibilities.
- You’re feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless.
- You’re experiencing drastic changes in mood or behavior.
- You’re using alcohol or drugs to self-medicate.
- You’re engaging in risky or harmful behaviors.
- You’re having thoughts of harming yourself or others.
- You’re not enjoying the things you used to enjoy.
What Should You Do if You Notice These Signals?
If you see any of the signals listed above in yourself or someone else, it’s important to reach out for help as soon as possible. A family counselor can provide the support and guidance you need to address these mental health issues before they become worse – and begin to cause major problems in your life.
Counseling can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms, keep stress and anxiety under control, and improve your communication and relationships with others. Your family counselor or mental health counselor will assure you that seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength. Don’t wait until things get too bad before you reach out for professional assistance.
How Can a Family Counselor Help Me?
Family counselors can provide support for everyone – including the one struggling and the family members who are trying to help. The counselor will help the client and their family to develop healthy new behaviors and helpful approaches to various situations.
During a mental health counseling session, you will meet with a licensed professional counselor who will listen to your concerns and help you develop a treatment plan that works for you. Your counselor may recommend individual counseling, family counseling, group therapy, or a combination of these.
They may also recommend medication if necessary. The goal of counseling is to help you manage your mental health symptoms and improve your quality of life.
One of the advantages of family counselors is that they can also provide guidance and feedback to family members who are trying to offer support. Oftentimes, family members should be doing the opposite of what they are actually doing to support the person who is having the mental health issue – for example, they may be acting condescending, sorrowful, or critical, rather than supportive and nonjudgmental.
It is critically important that families provide emotional support to their loved one during this time. This support plays a huge part in their recovery and improvement.
Family Counseling in Atlanta and Alpharetta, GA
If you’re looking for family counseling in Atlanta, our team at Atlanta Specialized Care can help. We provide family counseling and mental health counseling services to people in the Atlanta and Alpharetta area.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call us today at (770) 815-6853 or request an appointment online now. Our counselors are licensed professionals who are dedicated to helping you or your loved one live a happy and healthy life!
