7 Signs It May Be Time to See a Psychologist

Everyone has hard weeks. It can be difficult to tell when what you are feeling needs more than rest and time. These signs suggest that talking to a professional could help.

1. It has lasted weeks, not days

Low mood, worry or irritability that stays for several weeks and does not ease is worth paying attention to.

2. Your sleep or appetite has changed

Trouble falling asleep, waking at night, sleeping far too much, or big changes in eating can all be signs of stress or low mood.

3. You are avoiding things

Cancelling plans, dodging calls, delaying work or avoiding places because of how you feel.

4. Your thoughts will not switch off

Constant worry, replaying conversations, or imagining the worst can leave you exhausted.

5. Your relationships are suffering

More arguments, feeling distant from people you love, or repeating the same patterns again and again.

6. Old events still hurt

Memories, grief or past experiences that still feel close and affect your daily life.

7. You feel you are not yourself

If you have lost interest in things you used to enjoy, or you feel numb or on edge most of the time, it is a good time to talk to someone.

What to do

You do not need a crisis to start. A first session lets you describe what is going on and decide on next steps. If you ever feel unsafe or have thoughts of harming yourself, contact emergency services (Rescue 1122 in Pakistan) or someone you trust right away. This article is general information, not a diagnosis.