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Fall has come
One more reason to think about your mental health and assess your current state critically. Fall is the time when these kind of problems may come back.
We all feel blue sometimes. So, how do you know if it is the right time for this kind of a visit. Before we list the signs and feelings that may urge you to address a professional, we will discuss the difference between the following terms: psychiatrist, psychologist and therapist.
Psychiatrist
is a medical doctor who specializes in psychiatry. They can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy, although, many of them to do not engage in psychotherapy. For psychotherapy sessions you would rather see a psychologist or therapist and a psychiatrist if medications are necessary.
Psychologist
is a mental health professional. In order to become a licensed clinical psychologist, they need an undergraduate degree (4 to 5 years of college) as well as a doctorate in psychology (4 to 7 years of graduate school). They are able to perform psychotherapy, but they cannot prescribe medication.
Therapist
is someone who participates in the psychotherapy sessions with you. Often these professionals are referred to as counselors, psychotherapists, social workers, marriage and family therapists. A therapist has to have a bachelor’s degree.
Reasons to consult with a professional
- If you have thoughts, behaviors and emotions that are out of control. It is especially so, when they are affecting your work, relationships or sense of well-being. Do not overthink, it is absolutely normal to ask for help when you are upset or depressed.
- If you are struggling to cope with life’s painful challenges. For example, the loss of a loved one, major illness, job problems or divorce. These may be your own issues, but could also include those of your loved ones.
- If alcohol or drugs interfere with your emotions, your health, your relationships, your job or your ability to perform your daily responsibilities.
- If you are confused, fraught with emotions and need the perspectives of an unbiased person to help you make some difficult choices.
- And finally, if you think that life is no longer worth living. When you are hopeless and reached the end of the line, and you would rather die than feel the pain of the present. In the midst of such distress, you absolutely have to ask for help.
If you have any sort of suicidal thoughts, address a psychiatrist. This is a professional who can adequately observe your mental state and exclude some critical and serious problems. If a psychiatrist sees no depression or any other mental issue, then you can continue with a psychologist and therapist.