Emotional Wellness: How to Know When It’s Time to Seek Help
Guest published piece by Gloria Martinez of WomenLed.org
These days, millions of Americans are suffering from depression, anxiety, and various other mental and emotional disorders that can leave them feeling stressed, exhausted, helpless, and even suicidal. It’s hard to recognize those feelings in ourselves sometimes, especially when we have busy schedules and are preoccupied with taking care of our families. When you have time to yourself, however, you may begin to feel like you’re alone or that no one understands what you’re going through.
These are the times when thoughts of self-harm are most likely to come about, and it’s important to recognize them so that you can learn how to turn your thoughts into positive ones.
Suicide and substance abuse have been linked for years as researchers study the effects of drugs and alcohol on our bodies and minds. Substances can numb emotional and physical pain, but once the effects wear off, these feelings often return, leaving you feeling hollowed-out and confused. Substances can also exacerbate mental health conditions that haven’t been addressed.
Keep reading for tips courtesy of Project Passport and WomenLed.org on how to recognize when it’s time to seek help -- and where to find it.
Isolation
If you’re finding that it’s hard to go out and socialize, or if you just don’t have the energy to see other people, it may be time to ask for help. Self-isolation is a key component in mood disorders such as depression and social anxiety and can signal a need for counseling or other treatment. If you don’t have a supportive circle of friends or family, it’s important to find it in some other way. Talk to your doctor about how to find a support group or therapist in your area.
Note that isolation can be extra tough during the winter, especially for those who work from home. If you’re suffering the winter blues, remember that you can perk yourself up by making sure you take a break while the sun is still out, talking to loved ones, and staying as physically active as possible.
Substance abuse
People abuse substances for various reasons. Some may be looking to numb the emotional pain of a lost relationship, while others are trying to forget an abusive past. Using substances as a stand-in for real help can only make things worse, and they can mask other, undiagnosed issues and make it more difficult for your doctor to help you.
If drugs or alcohol play a significant role in your life and are used as a substitute for therapy or counseling, it’s time to ask for help. Addiction Center suggests considering inpatient treatment for addiction, which will take you out of your current environment so that you may better focus on healing. Learn more about additional treatment options through Restore Detox Centers.
Mood swings
Everyone gets upset now and then, but if you find that you’re having wild mood swings from one extreme to another, it may be time to seek assistance. There might be an underlying mental health disorder at play, or maybe you simply need to learn how to handle stress and reduce it in your everyday life. If your moods manifest in a violent manner toward yourself or your loved ones, seek help immediately.
Performance
Depression, major anxiety, and substance abuse can all contribute to poor performance at work, at school, or within your relationships at home, notes Nemours Children’s Health. You may find yourself feeling like you’re alone because you’re unable to communicate how you feel, even to those who are closest to you. This can, in turn, lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm. If you’re having trouble staying focused on a particular aspect of your life, it’s time to sit down and evaluate why.
Emotional wellness is crucial these days, especially with so many of us leading extremely busy, stressful lives. So talk to your doctor or look for a support group online that can help you work through your feelings. And remember: with a little effort and vigilance, you can find the happiness and contentment that you deserve.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Lifeline) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741). Both services are free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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Project Passport represents a new approach to mental health designed to help clients take control of their lives and find the joy they are entitled to through proactive wellness solutions. Call 919-371-8127.