When to Seek Counsel

People often ask about when to seek counseling.  The answer is different for everyone as there are many reasons to get help.  One thing we tell people is that dysfunction is a tell-tale sign that someone may benefit from counseling.  There are various ways that people feel like they are not functioning. Here are a few.

1. Safety is one of the main reasons to seek outside help.  If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, or self-harm, seek professional help immediately. Samaritan Behavioral Health has staff available 24/7 to talk with anyone in crisis at 937-224-4646. 
2. Physical signs of distress is another signal that someone needs help.  For example, not eating or sleeping, and chest pain, or unusual outbursts are some of the physical signs something could be off mentally or emotionally. 
3. Intrusive thoughts are also a problem.  This just means that someone is having thoughts that really disturb or distress them, and they do not know how to make them go away. 
4. Isolation is another indication someone needs counseling. It is alright for people to need downtime or more personal space now and then. Withdrawal is a problem when people start routinely avoiding people who care about them and avoiding daily responsibilities.
5. We are always concerned when someone is in a romantic relationship with someone they feel is physically or emotionally unsafe. 

The bottom line is that it is never bad to seek counsel. The word of God says in Proverbs 11:14, “When there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”  

Counseling could be from a friend, family member, or a pastor. In some cases it should be from someone specifically trained to respond to particular struggles.  We believe that there is no shame in asking for help, because we are all a work in progress, in need of help, and in need of a Savior.