All of us experience painful feelings at one time or another. Sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, and distress are examples of natural feelings that arise in the course of living. However, in some cases these feelings can be overwhelming, making it difficult for a person to function normally on a day-to-day basis. Some distress signals to look for are:
- Feelings of loneliness, moodiness, sadness, failure, stress or anxiety
- Difficulty in setting or reaching goals
- Unexplainable fatigue or difficulty sleeping
- The need for tranquilizers, energizers or sleeping aids
- Drastic weight fluctuation or irregular eating patterns
- Persistent feelings of dissatisfaction
- Difficulties with anger
- Sexual problems or concerns
- Work difficulties, frequent job changes, problems with coworkers
- Difficulties in talking with your partner, spouse, children, parents, other family members, friends or coworkers.
- Problems with a child's behavior, school adjustment or performance
- Constant family stress
Therapy can help you identify and address needed changes and aid in handling difficult situations. Psychotherapy may also help you to get to know and like yourself a little better. At the end of the process, you should feel happier and more productive.
