Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being. It affects our thoughts, emotions, and behavior, which, in turn, affects how we interact with ourselves and others. While everyone experiences some level of emotional distress or psychological discomfort from time to time, it's important to recognize when these experiences become persistent or severe enough to warrant professional help. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the warning signs that indicate it's time to see a therapist.

1. Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness: If you feel sad or hopeless for an extended period, despite your efforts to shake off these emotions, it may be a sign of depression. Depression can interfere with your ability to enjoy life, disrupt your sleep, and impact your overall well-being.

1. Anxiety or excessive worry: Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but if your worries or fears are excessive, and you find it difficult to control them, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Anxiety can also manifest as physical symptoms such as sweating, racing heart, or rapid breathing.

1. Significant changes in appetite or sleep patterns: Changes in eating habits or sleep patterns can be an indicator of stress, anxiety, or depression. If you're experiencing significant changes, such as a loss of appetite, weight loss, or difficulty sleeping, it may be time to seek professional help.

1. Relationship difficulties: If you're experiencing problems in your relationships, such as conflicts with your partner, difficulty communicating with family members, or problems at work, it may be a sign that you need to seek the help of a therapist.

1. Substance use: If you find yourself turning to alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems or emotions, it may be a sign of a more significant underlying issue. Substance abuse can also exacerbate mental health problems and interfere with your ability to function in daily life.

1. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or have engaged in self-harm, it's important to seek immediate help. These are serious warning signs that indicate a mental health crisis.

In conclusion, if you're experiencing any of the above warning signs, it may be time to seek the help of a mental health professional. At the Lartey Wellness Group, we are committed to providing the right care for our patients. We have a roster of over 40 mental health professionals as well as a network of partner mental health care agencies. This helps us make sure all our clients are assigned to the right care provider as soon as possible. If you or a loved one is going through a mental health crisis, kindly call us on 1 (800) 994-5403 or email us at admin@larteywellness.com to schedule an appointment.