Charity Spotlight: This blog post is provided by staff at KW Counselling Services as part of our ongoing charity spotlight series.

At some point in your life, you’ll likely face a situation or challenge that is difficult to deal with. It might come on suddenly after the loss of a loved one, or it might follow the loss of a job, or major life change like going to a new school or moving to a new city. These challenges may feel daunting at first, but know that you’re not alone. Know that there is help available, and know that the first step in seeking help is to realize you need it.

To some, help may look different than it does to others. Some may find that reaching out to a friend or family member may help them understand what they are experiencing or help them find solace. Others may visit their family doctor, or find that hard times are easier to manage with help from a counsellor or therapist. But counselling is for everyone and can help you manage a wide range of issues. If you’re not sure if counselling is right for you, here are six signs that could signal counselling would be helpful for you now:

1. You Avoid Socializing

Our social interactions with other people are important. If you usually enjoy attending parties, spending time with friends and family, or participating in work gatherings, but are starting to find the idea of these activities stressful and begin to avoid them, you may be experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. When mental health issues affect your relationships or everyday activities, a counsellor may be able to help.

2. You Have Trouble Controlling Your Emotions

From time to time, we all experience “big emotions”.  If your mood changes quickly, or you’re very prone to extreme anger or sadness, it could be a sign that you are coping with something that a counsellor can help with. Speaking with a counsellor when you notice these kinds of “big emotions” might help you avoid larger problems down the road.

3. You Struggle with Relationships

Relationships are so important in every part of our lives. Finding yourself in frequent conflicts, having trouble keeping friends, or feeling like romantic relationships are not worth the effort are all things a counsellor might be able to help you cope with.

4. You Have Experienced Trauma

There are many types of traumas, and everyone will deal with them differently. Experiences like being in an abusive relationship, being in an accident, having a miscarriage, experiencing discrimination, or coping with the death of a loved one can all be traumatic. Speaking to a counsellor can help you to move forward.

5. You’re Not Having Fun

If you notice that you no longer enjoy participating in your favourite activities, it might be a sign that you are coping with something that you could use some help with. It might also be a sign of clinical depression or another mental health concern. Talking with a counsellor can help you discover the root of the problem, and help you get back to enjoying your favourite things.

6. You’re Just Looking for New Supports

You probably have certain people you speak to about the challenges in your life. Perhaps this is a friend, a co-worker, or family member. Sometimes, it can be helpful to speak with someone who is outside your usual circle and talking with a counsellor can help provide you with a new perspective from someone who will listen without judgement, and who will focus on your needs.

Aside from the signs listed above, counselling might be able to help you with issues like:

• Stress from your job or personal life;
• Alcohol or drug use;
• Reflecting on your sexual orientation and/or gender identity;
• Dealing with separation and divorce;
• Experiencing parenting challenges;
• Balancing work and family;
• Managing financial issues; or
• Adjusting to life in Canada.

KW Counselling Services is Here to Help

At KW Counselling Services, we offer a variety of therapeutic counselling services to individuals, couples, families and groups. Therapeutic counselling is a specialized short to medium term service that addresses psychosocial, emotional, behavioural, relational and mental health needs. Our therapeutic counselling services are informed by individual and family values and goals with an emphasis on growth, development, and change.

Our professional and confidential services are provided by over 25 experienced therapists and supervised placement students and all of the staff at KW Counselling Services have at least a masters degree in social work, or a related field and experience working with individuals, couples, children, teens, and families on a variety of topics.

To learn more about KW Counselling Services, or to make a donation, please visit their Charity Profile Page.

 

---

Updated on November 1, 2024