Feeling Stuck? Here’s When to Consider Therapy

Maybe you’ve thought about therapy — and then talked yourself out of it. “I’m not in crisis.” “Other people have it worse.” “I should be able to figure this out.” Sound familiar?

The truth is, therapy isn’t only for when things fall apart. It’s also for when you’re ready to grow, shift direction, or feel more like yourself again.

Here are a few reasons to consider therapy that might surprise you — and that are absolutely valid.

You’re just feeling “off.”

“Many people come to therapy because they’re in some kind of distress. But that distress can take many forms — including vague feelings that life just isn’t working the way it should,” says Richard Lautenbach, PhD, a clinical psychologist with Hartford HealthCare’s Institute of Living, part of the Behavioral Health Network.

Of course, serious mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD and addiction are all common reasons people consider seeking therapy. But so are more subtle issues, like feeling stuck, unmotivated or dissatisfied, even if you can’t quite explain why.

“Some people come in with schizophrenia. Others come in with vague unhappiness. Both are valid,” says Dr. Lautenbach.

You’re struggling with the state of the world.

We all know how big life transitions — a breakup, a job loss, retirement — can leave us feeling unmoored. So can chronic illness or grief.

And in case you hadn’t noticed: So can current events.

In recent years, studies have shown rising rates of anxiety, depression and burnout tied to global events — from the pandemic to climate change to political and social unrest. Therapy can help you cope.

“Therapy has always helped us process things that are painful or complicated,” says Dr. Lautenbach. “More and more, this includes people who feel overwhelmed by the world itself — the inequity, the division — and want help making sense of it.”

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You keep running into the same patterns.

Maybe you’re stuck in habits you wish you could break — like procrastinating, overdrinking or snapping at loved ones. Or maybe you’re trying to start something new, but can’t follow through.

“If you’re doing things you don’t want to do, or not doing the things you do want to do, that’s a sign something’s going on under the surface,” says Dr. Lautenbach. “A therapist can help you figure out what’s driving those patterns.”

You feel alone, misunderstood or disconnected.

Even if you’re surrounded by people, it’s possible to feel emotionally isolated. When no one seems to “get” you — or when your relationships feel strained — therapy can provide a safe, judgment-free space to sort it out.

“Feeling alienated can be dangerous,” says Dr. Lautenbach. “It’s something we take very seriously in mental health, because it’s strongly linked to depression and even suicide. Therapy can help you reconnect with yourself and with others.”

> Related: 4 Signs It’s Time to See an Expert for Anxiety 

You want more out of life.

Therapy isn’t just for healing — it’s for growth. Maybe you’re ready to reflect on your values, strengthen your relationships or simply live more meaningfully.

“Sometimes people say they feel like they were born to run, but they’re stuck in neutral. Therapy can help them shift into gear,” says Dr. Lautenbach. “This isn’t about being broken. This is about being human — and choosing to take care of yourself.”

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