Know When Your Family Needs Therapy

When family problems seem overwhelming, it's time to seek family counseling.  Here's a checklist of warning signals that indicate the need for family therapy.

Difficulty Level: Hard      Time Required: One to two months

Here's How:

1. If a family member is exhibiting any of the symptoms listed below, counseling can help:
2. Depression, or talking about suicide or death.
3. Lack of interest or boredom in activities.
4. Communication has become a tedious task.
5. The battles outweigh the good times.
6. Indifference among family members.
7. Marital problems, domestic violence, or abuse among family members.
8. Feeling stressed or stretched past their limits.
9. Does a family member have a disability or chronic medical condition?
10. Any recent changes such as: a death, divorce, or career change.
11. Alcohol or drug abuse.
12. Sleep difficulties.
    
    

Tips:

1. All families face overwhelming times, don't feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek counseling.
2. Counseling can offer refreshing strategies to enhance family closeness.
3. If finances are an issue, contact your local Dept. of Human Services, as they often offer family therapy at no cost.