9 Signs That You Need Grief Counseling
Grief is universal, as we all experience loss during our lives. People manage grief differently. Some individuals may withdraw from the world around them, while others may seek comfort in being close to family and friends. While some people can find closure in weeks, others may not find a sense of closure for months or even years. It is essential to recognize when you need assistance dealing with grief. Once grief reaches beyond its prescribed boundaries and begins affecting your life in a long-term way, you should seek professional advice on eliminating the adverse effects and finding your well-being. Experts offer these 9 signs that seeking counseling in Orlando may be beneficial for dealing with your grief:
Loss of daily functioning
If you find yourself unable to perform normal daily functions like sleeping, eating, participating in school, or carrying out your regular job duties, grief has become a significant problem for you. You need to seek professional assistance with coping.
Fear of new relationships
Fear of loss can cause apprehension in developing new relationships in severe cases of grief. Though this fear is prevalent, the long-term effects can be significant. Life requires forging new connections to grow and move forward with vigor.
Avoidance of friends and family
Though processing grief often requires some level of time alone, if this feeling becomes persistent and avoiding time with loved ones becomes a long-term habit, seeking professional help may be in order.
Emotional numbness
Grief can cause a person to cycle through many emotions and is perfectly normal during the grieving process. On the other hand, complete emotional numbness may be a sign that you need the help of a professional to come to terms with your loss in a healthier way.
Emotional escape
Though keeping yourself busy to avoid facing feelings of sadness when dealing with a loss is very common, it is not the best solution long-term. There comes a time when confronting these feelings is the only way to move beyond the loss you have experienced. If you find yourself unable to face emotions, it is probably best to seek professional advice.
Enjoyment loss
As much as it may feel like it at times, life does not end when grief begins. Though you may have lost an influential figure in your life, you still need to have goals and interests. If dealing with grief stops you from pursuing happiness or looking for a new opportunity for long periods, you probably need some help moving forward.
Sudden behavioral changes
It is not uncommon to experience mood changes while coping with grief, but if you find yourself acting entirely out of character, there may be a reason for concern. Some behaviors that signal the need for professional intervention include drug use, irrational anger, excessive alcohol consumption, or getting involved in destructive relationships.
Hearing voices or hallucinating
Many people are comforted by the thought of hearing or seeing a loved one after they die, but if you consistently experience visions or voices that others do not, you may want to explore why. You should be especially concerned if what you are hearing or seeing is accusing or angry, as this is a sign that you should seek the help of a professional.
Suicidal thoughts
You should never ignore suicidal thoughts and feelings. If you find yourself having thoughts or feelings of suicide, you should seek help. If you do not feel comfortable seeing a professional to assist you, reach out to a loved one you trust. Loved ones can often be the source of support you need to feel safe asking for professional help.
Asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of. Everyone needs help in life, and grief can get heavy. Find the support you need from family, friends, or even a trusted physician if you do not feel comfortable seeking the help of a professional counselor.
