Let’s look at some of the common reasons people go to counselling. In recent years counselling has gained popularity, and it’s not hard to see why. Engaging in therapy can be an amazing experience.
Many of us find talking to someone who isn’t a close friend or family member highly beneficial. Sometimes, there’s a fear of being judged or misunderstood by those close to us. So, having a person to confide in, someone you’re not emotionally responsible for can be a valuable resource.
There’s no shame in reaching out to a counsellor for support. Counselling empowers you to discuss your feelings openly, discover new techniques for emotional self-regulation, and find relief from your concerns while gaining deeper self-awareness.
So, let’s take a look at some of the common reasons people go to counselling.
1. Anxiety
Anxiety is often described as an overwhelming sense of dread, fear, and unease, sometimes all at once. In more intense cases, anxiety can manifest physically with symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, restlessness, dizziness, and nausea. Anxiety disorders can lead to various other challenges in life, such as sleep disturbances, avoidance behaviours, or even depression.
It’s important to note that we all experience some degree of anxiety, it’s a natural part of being human, and there’s no simple “off switch” for it. However, while anxiety may never completely disappear, you can certainly learn how to manage its symptoms.
Anxiety often originates from irrational thought patterns, which influence our emotions and, subsequently, our behaviours. Counselling can be a valuable resource for breaking this cycle and acquiring effective coping strategies.
2. Depression
Depression stands out as one of the primary reasons people seek counselling in the UK. It’s an issue that doesn’t discriminate, affecting people of all ages, genders, and races. According to the Office for National Statistics, depression is among the most prevalent mental health disorders in the UK, impacting a staggering 1 in 6 adults.
Living with depression can make daily functioning incredibly challenging, with consequences for relationships, work, appetite, energy levels, sleep, and overall health. Often, it generates feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, guilt, and frustration.
Engaging with a qualified counsellor can provide a path to understanding the underlying causes of your depression. Through counselling, you can develop strategies to manage your symptoms and find the relief you deserve.
3. Relationship problems
Relationship issues such as divorce, infidelity, and conflict, are some of the most common reasons people go to counselling.
The quality of your relationships has a profound impact on your emotional well-being. This includes not only romantic relationships but also friendships, family dynamics, and colleague interactions.
When someone is grappling with a relationship issue that’s causing them distress, it’s not uncommon to seek help. Individual, couples and family therapy can be instrumental in enhancing communication, resolving conflicts, establishing boundaries, and cultivating healthier relationships.
4. Grief and loss
The loss of a parent, child, friend, or spouse can be an incredibly challenging experience to navigate alone. Grief often comes in waves and affects people in various ways.
Emotions like guilt, sadness, and even denial can prolong and intensify grief-related issues. This emotional journey can feel like a rollercoaster ride. Speaking with a fully trained counsellor who understands the stages of grief can be immensely helpful in processing these complex emotions.
Counselling offers comfort, support, and a path to finding the closure you need when dealing with grief.
5. Trauma & past experiences
People who have experienced trauma in their lives, such as physical or emotional abuse, are also common reasons people attend counselling.
Traumatic life experiences have the potential to leave lasting impacts, even after the event itself. Over time, traumatic experiences can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can manifest in a variety of physical and psychological symptoms, including:
- Intrusive Memories: These are distressing, unwanted memories of the traumatic event. People with PTSD may experience flashbacks or nightmares. These memories can be so vivid that the person feels like they are reliving the event.
- Avoidance and Numbing: People with PTSD often go to great lengths to avoid situations, people, or places that remind them of the traumatic event. They may also withdraw emotionally, feeling detached from others or their own emotions.
- Negative Changes in Thoughts and Mood: This includes a persistent negative mindset, self-blame, or guilt about the trauma. People with PTSD may have difficulty remembering key aspects of the traumatic event.
- Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: People with PTSD can be easily startled, have difficulty concentrating, and may experience mood swings. They might become irritable or angry and have trouble sleeping.
It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely. Seeking help from a qualified therapist or counsellor is crucial for managing and recovering from PTSD.
6. Addiction & substance abuse
Drugs, alcohol, gambling and even shopping are often used as a way of coping. Counselling plays a vital role in helping people address problematic behaviours, like alcoholism, while also delving into the root causes of addiction.
It’s important to recognise that the underlying reasons for addiction can vary widely among people, ranging from stress and traumatic experiences to depression or grief.
Counsellors are also valuable sources of support for family members dealing with a loved one’s addiction. Both individual and group counselling options are available to help family members better understand addiction and learn how to support their loved one’s journey to recovery.
7. Confidence & self-esteem
Counselling can help people who are struggling with low confidence and self-esteem. By delving into the root causes, counsellors can assist people in understanding the causes of their negative self-perceptions.
The therapeutic process challenges and reframes distorted thinking, fostering a shift towards realistic and positive perspectives. Coping strategies are developed to effectively manage setbacks, and the cultivation of resilience enhances an person’s ability to navigate challenges.
Through self-exploration, people can identify and appreciate their strengths, contributing significantly to increased confidence. Communication skills are honed, promoting assertiveness and empowerment in social interactions.
8. Transition or goal-setting
Whether it’s starting a family, retiring from a long-term career, moving home, or setting up your own business, these are all common reasons for having counselling.
Significant life changes or transitions can be challenging to navigate, and they often bring about increased stress and anxiety. During such times, counselling can be crucial in helping people manage these emotional burdens and make informed decisions about their future.
Taking a proactive approach and working with a therapist can provide valuable support during periods of change. Through counselling, people can set and work towards meaningful goals, and develop effective coping strategies. This process can lead to a smoother transition and a more positive outlook on the future.
9. Phobias
Phobias, ranging from common ones like arachnophobia (fear of spiders) to more debilitating conditions like agoraphobia (fear of being alone in specific situations), can be a significant source of distress. People with phobias often go to great lengths to avoid the things or situations they fear, but this avoidance can severely restrict their daily lives.
For instance, someone dealing with agoraphobia may find it challenging to leave their home, which can negatively impact their job and personal relationships. Even seemingly minor fears, such as the fear of birds, can disrupt daily life.
Specialised counselling, focusing on phobia treatment, can be highly effective in addressing these fears. Counsellors use techniques like exposure therapy in combination with talk therapy to help people confront and overcome their phobias, ultimately leading to a better quality of life.
Low Cost Online Counselling
Our low-cost counselling service gives you access to private therapy for only £29. Just follow these two simple steps to access our affordable counselling service.
Step 1: Go to the self referral contact form below.
Step 2: Complete the form to book and secure an initial free consultation.
It’s as simple as that. One of our team will contact you within 24 hours to discuss your needs.
