How to Know If You Need Therapy: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Mary Mikhail
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Many people struggle silently with their mental health, unsure if their struggles “count” as serious enough to see a therapist. The truth is, you don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. If you’ve been wondering whether therapy might help you, you’re not alone—and asking that question is already a meaningful first step.
This blog explores common emotional and behavioural signs that indicate it may be time to speak with a mental health professional.
1. You’re Feeling Overwhelmed Most of the Time
We all have busy or stressful days. But if you're constantly feeling like you’re on the verge of breaking down—whether due to school, work, relationships, or just trying to keep up—therapy can help you learn strategies to manage and regulate stress more effectively.
2. You’re Struggling with Anxiety or Worry That Won’t Go Away
Occasional worry is normal. But if your mind is constantly racing, you can’t sleep due to overthinking, or you avoid situations out of fear or panic, these could be signs of an anxiety disorder. Therapy—especially approaches like DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) or ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)—can be very effective in reducing anxiety
symptoms.
3. You Feel Down, Numb, or Unmotivated
Depression doesn’t always look like crying. It can feel like emotional numbness, lack of motivation, or difficulty enjoying things you used to love. If you’re sleeping more (or less),
eating differently, or isolating from others, it may be time to reach out.
4. You’re Having a Hard Time with Relationships
Whether it's romantic, family, or friendships, therapy can help you understand patterns in your relationships, set boundaries, and improve communication. You don’t need to wait for a relationship to reach a breaking point to ask for support.
5. You’ve Experienced a Recent Life Change or Loss
Big transitions—like starting university, moving, ending a relationship, or losing a loved one—can affect your emotional well-being. Therapy can offer a supportive space to navigate change and grief, even if it’s something you chose (like a new job or school).
6. You're Noticing Physical Symptoms of Emotional Stress
Mental health issues often show up physically: headaches, stomach issues, tightness in your chest, fatigue, or frequent illness. If medical tests don’t offer answers, it may be time to consider how stress or unresolved emotional issues could be affecting your body.
7. You’re Curious About Therapy or Want to Understand
Yourself Better
You don’t need to be in a mental health crisis to start therapy. Many people benefit from therapy for personal growth, self-awareness, or processing the past. If you're simply curious, that’s more than enough reason to reach out.
You Deserve Support—No Matter Where You're Starting From
If even one of these signs resonates with you, you’re not alone—and therapy can help. At Harmony Healing Psychotherapy, I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can explore what you’re going through and work toward relief, clarity, and meaningful change.
I work with adults and young adults, including university students, offering support for a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and life transitions. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just ready to better understand yourself, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
✅ Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation
Not sure if therapy is the right fit? Let’s talk. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to answer your questions and help you decide if therapy is right for you.
📍Available to clients across Ontario, both virtually and in-person.
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