Why consult a psychologist?For some people, seeing a psychologist may be embarrassing, an admission of failure in coping with life’s problems. In fact, the services provided by psychologists can be seen simply as an important part of total health care.
Psychologists in private practice treat the anxious-well, the walking wounded. Psychologists see people who have a wide range of problems. Some people consult psychologists when they simply have an important decision to make and need an objective and private sounding board. |
Other people suffer from diagnosable psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. A psychological disorder may be indicated by any of the following: severe mental turmoil and extreme mood changes, loss of contact with reality, insomnia and loss of appetite, chronic feelings of guilt, sexual dysfunction, social isolation, withdrawal and irritability, constant rage, violence, suicidal feelings, self-defeating behaviour and so on.
Some people experience difficulties when they go through transitions such as marriage breakdown, workplace problems/job loss, retirement, parenthood, accidents, serious illness, bereavement and other situations. The ability to cope varies from person to person, and within any one person, coping fluctuates depending on the number and severity of stressors.
Psychologists are trained to recognize the physical factors of psychological disorders when these occur and the psychological factors contributing to physical illness. They work within their scope of practice to provide quality health care. Psychologists will ensure that the client/patient seeks medical attention when it is appropriate and also will refer to other social services when they are important to the resolution of the problem.
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