Are you and your significant other drifting apart as of late? Are you finding arguments and frustrating moments of silence cropping up more often than not? Are you even starting to question why you stay around in the first place? You might need to attend a psychotherapy session and lay everything out on the table to air in front of a trained professional. The field of psychology is devoted to the art of analyzing the heart and mind, helping everyone from a variety of backgrounds — from those with mental illness to married couples to people struggling with day-to-day stress. Much like taking vitamin supplements or attending physical therapy, emotional and mental health is tackled through small and significant actions. Below I’ll list mental health statistics in the United States, common relationship issues and how psychotherapy can help you and your loved one see eye-to-eye again.
Mental Health In America
Mental health and wellness takes many different forms, from a peaceful state of mind to a harrowed and stressed mentality that can even take a toll on physical well-being. It’s estimated over sixteen million Americans had at least one major depressive episode in the year 2012, accounting for almost 7% of adults in the country. Depression is caused by a variety of factors, some chemical and some environmental, and takes a toll on happiness and productivity if not checked early on. Half of all Americans with depression don’t seek treatment, with the majority of sufferers being adult women and teenage girls, and find their health and workplace suffering as a result. Other prevalent mental health issues include, but are not limited to: post traumatic stress disorder (affecting half of the population on average) and chronic anxiety disorder (affecting over 3% of the population consistently).
Couples Therapy
While mental and emotional health can factor into couples counseling sessions, these particular therapy services specialize in analyzing relationships and encouraging healthy and happy day-to-day interactions. The Chicago Center for Emotionally Focused Therapy conducted a research series that showed the progress of couples that attended therapy — half of all couples showed significant recovery upon finalization of their session, with a stunning 70% recovering within three months. Upon attending psychotherapy sessions, you will be armed with better communication tools and a deeper knowledge of mental and emotional day-to-day health through routine exercises and self-reflection. Session times vary, from a few weeks to a few months to a full year, and can be changed depending on how you and your significant other are progressing. The most important step, however, is just getting started and contacting a local clinic.
Attending Psychotherapy
It’s not easy signing up for a counseling session (indeed, the fear of judgement is what prevents the majority of people from seeking the help they need!), but it’s the most important step on your road to recovery. Choosing the right professional will go a long way in making sure your problems are properly pinpointed — a licensed marriage and family therapist, for example, will have you spending less time analyzing your relationship problems than if you turned to a psychiatrist. The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists reported that over 90% of surveyed couples who underwent couples therapy reported either good or excellent help with their problems. The worst thing that can happen if you go to a counseling session is switching therapists or trying a new approach — look in your local directory and give your relationship another chance.