When Is It Time To See A Counselor?

People emigrate for various reasons. For most people it is in search for a better life for their families and future generations but for some it is a matter of life and death due to political unrest or war. All these reasons together with other factors related to adjusting to a new culture can cause some mental health problems for immigrant families. Unfortunately most immigrants believe that you should not talk to outsiders about your personal or family problems. Certain cultures only trust their religious or spiritual leaders and find it difficult to seek help outside of those institutions.

 It is important to encourage families in your communities to seek assistance if they need it. There is no shame in seeking help to get through a difficult time just like there is no shame in getting medical help when we are sick. Here are some signs that it may be time to suggest that a family member see a professional counselor.

• Prolonged anxiety that interferes with day to day living
• Having difficulty coping with life's stressful situations resulting in prolonged overwhelming feelings
• Having difficulty appreciating anything positive and life seems like a blur most of the time
• Avoiding others especially family and friends and preferring long periods of time alone
• Frequent crying and tearfulness
• Irritability, anger and hostility
• Lack of energy and fatigue
• Excessive use of alcohol to cope
• Using drugs to cope

Here are some reasons why you should use a mental health counselor.
The American mental health counselors association has a list of resources to help you find the help that you need. If you need assistance with finding affordable care, contact Mental Health America; an advocacy group that connects people with affordable mental health services. Your local places of worship or community groups can also be a great resource to help you find the help that you need. Do not let yourself or a member of your family suffer in silence, Get help!!!