Signs You Need Therapy: A Chicago Therapist's Guide

Recognizing when it's time to seek professional help can be challenging. Learn about the common signs that indicate therapy could benefit your mental health and well-being.

Published June 20255 min read

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving Chicago I often see people hesitant to begin mental health services. The truth is, you don't have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Mental health support can be valuable at any stage of life, whether you're dealing with specific challenges or simply want to improve your overall well-being.

This guide will help you recognize the signs that indicate therapy could be beneficial, understand when it's time to seek professional help, and learn how therapy can support your mental health journey. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Common Signs That Therapy Can Help

These signs don't mean something is "wrong" with you - they indicate areas where professional support could be beneficial

Emotional Signs

  • Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness
  • Overwhelming anger or irritability
  • Feeling hopeless or worthless
  • Emotional numbness or inability to feel joy
  • Intense mood swings
  • Constant worry or racing thoughts

Behavioral Changes

  • Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities
  • Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping)
  • Significant changes in appetite or weight
  • Decreased performance at work or school
  • Increased use of alcohol or substances
  • Neglecting personal hygiene or responsibilities

Physical Symptoms

  • Chronic headaches or unexplained aches
  • Digestive issues without medical cause
  • Chronic fatigue or low energy
  • Frequent illness or lowered immunity
  • Tension in muscles, jaw, or shoulders
  • Changes in libido or sexual function

Relationship Difficulties

  • Difficulty maintaining close relationships
  • Frequent conflicts with family or friends
  • Feeling disconnected from loved ones
  • Problems with intimacy or trust
  • Patterns of unhealthy relationships
  • Isolation or fear of social situations

When to Seek Help Immediately

Some situations require immediate professional attention

Seek immediate help if you experience:

  • Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
  • Thoughts of harming others
  • Severe panic attacks or anxiety that interferes with daily life
  • Inability to function in daily activities for an extended period
  • Hearing voices or experiencing hallucinations

Crisis Resources:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Emergency Services: 911

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy provides tools, support, and insights to improve your mental health and quality of life

Develop healthy coping strategies
Improve communication skills
Process traumatic experiences safely
Build self-awareness and emotional intelligence
Learn to manage anxiety and depression
Strengthen relationships with others
Set and achieve personal goals
Break negative thought patterns

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you've recognized signs that therapy could help, remember that seeking support is a courageous step toward better mental health. As a bilingual therapist in Chicago, I'm here to provide culturally sensitive care in both English and Spanish.

Serving North Center, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Logan Square, and surrounding Chicago neighborhoods