When to Seek Counseling
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It's normal to have occasional stress and sadness, but when these feelings are more intense or frequent they make it difficult to function at work, in school, and at home. If you or your teen is showing some of the signs listed below, it is important to seek help.
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Signs of Anxiety
Excessive worry that something bad will happen
Inability to stop worrying about different things
Avoidance of activities that cause stress
Restlessness or feeling on-edge
Frequent headaches or stomach aches
Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
Difficulty sleeping
Anxiety/Panic attacks
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Signs of Depression
Persistent feeling of sadness or emptiness
Decreased energy and motivation
Changes in sleep or appetite
Increased irritability or anger
Decrease in grades and/or school attendance
Decrease in productivity at work; tardiness or absences
Loss of interest in once-pleasurable activities
Destructive or risk-taking behaviors
Difficulty concentrating
Isolation
Self-harm
Thoughts of suicide or not wanting to be alive
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Signs of Trauma-Related Concerns
Sleep disturbances
Intrusive memories or nightmares related to trauma
Avoidance of situations that trigger memories
Feeling numb or detached from others
Easily startled, extra watchful or guarded
Feeling as though the event is happening again
Anger outbursts
Depressive symptoms
Dangerous/risk-taking/thrill seeking behaviors
Exaggerated/intense emotions when faced with reminders of the trauma
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