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4 min read

When to seek professional help

Signs that it may be time to talk to a therapist, doctor, or crisis service.

Reaching out for professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Consider professional support if you experience: • Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness for more than two weeks • Anxiety that prevents you from daily activities • Significant changes in sleep or appetite • Withdrawal from people and activities you used to enjoy • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions • Using alcohol or substances to cope • Thoughts of death, self-harm, or suicide

If you are in crisis right now: Contact emergency services or a crisis helpline immediately. In the US, call or text 988. See our crisis resources for international options.

How to start • Ask your doctor for a referral • Search for licensed therapists in your area or online • Check if your employer or school offers counselling • Many communities have low-cost or sliding-scale options

Peer support on TakeMyHand can walk alongside professional care — especially between appointments or while waiting to access services.