There are many reasons people go to therapy. But if you’re reading this article, you’re probably wondering what those reasons are and if therapy might be right for you? Here are 31 reasons to go to therapy and 1 specific time when therapy might not be very beneficial. 

31 Reasons to go to therapy:

1. You feel concerned about something you’re doing or feeling.
2. Your emotions feel out of control.
3. You’re having mood swings that are unexpected or beyond your control.
4. You’ve tried working things out on your own, but you are still struggling.
5. Your friends or loved ones have voiced concerns about how you’re doing.
6. It feels difficult to cope.
7. Self-care hasn’t been high on your list.
8. You use alcohol or drugs to cope.
9. You use food to cope.
10. Stress is causing you difficulties with sleeping, eating, or engaging in your day to day (work, studying, socializing).
11. You have frequent stomachaches, headaches, or other physical sensations often associated with stress.
12. You think about death, dying, or harming yourself.
13. Friends or Family support doesn’t feel like enough anymore.
14. You would like to explore new ways to cope with stress.
15. You feel disconnected in your relationships. 
16. You’re feeling alone or generally isolated.
17. Relationships have been impacted by what’s going on in your life.
18. There’s a big life change or transition.
19. You’ve experienced a loss.
20. Life events are making you more stressed or irritable than usual.
21. It’s difficult to communicate with your family or partner.
22. You have difficulties resolving conflicts.
23. Your friendships and relationships don’t last.
24. You’re struggling with your identity, whether your general sense of self or your sexuality or gender.
25. You have low self-esteem.
26. You feel stuck.
27. You feel worried or anxious more than usual.
28. Your mood has been persistently lower than usual.
29. You have significant fears.
30. You’ve experienced a traumatic experience or have PTSD.
31. You want support and a fresh perspective.

When you might not benefit from therapy:

1. When you don’t want to be there (or are forced to go).

Now that you’ve read the list of reasons, don’t forget that the best reason of all is if you feel like you want or need to go. If you’re still wondering if therapy might be right for you, talking with a professional can help you determine if therapy is right for you. Why not reach out and give it a try?