The particular tools that can help us will vary depending on who we uniquely are. For example, if we are action-oriented, we may need “tools” to help us slow down, take time outs and build in meditation and reflection. If we are analytical and "in our head", we may need to get out of the house, distract ourselves, and “just do” something. Similarly, our life stage and particular circumstances will also determine our choice of tools. If I am widowed and grieving, I may have different needs than the person who has been divorced for several years. If I am actively dating, I may have different needs than someone who is a “chosen single.”
In the accompanying article, Toolbox for Single Stress, you can read about some of the areas that can be bumps in the emotional road for many single people. You can also read about some of the tools that can get you back on track. You can also connect to other useful references and websites In Resources and Links.
Although you can do a lot on your own, it’s important to recognize when a professional can be helpful or necessary. Read on to learn more about possible indicators.
If any of these signs or symptoms apply to you, you may want to consider consulting a professional in order to help you get back on track and move forward.
You’ve tried your toolbox solutions and none of them seem to work, or if they do work, they don’t get you out of the “blahs” for very long.
You worry that you are beginning to “wear out” some of the tools in your toolbox. For example, you worry that your friends are becoming burned out, or perhaps you are even burned out or discouraged from trying so hard to feel better or “do the right thing.”
You wonder, “Is this all there is?” and recognize more intense or serious symptoms of depression, self defeating, or self-destructive behavior and thinking.
Looking at some well regarded websites such as www.mayohealth.org , www.webmd.com or www.nami.org may be useful in helping you learn more about symptoms of depression, anxiety, social anxiety and other disorders that may require more attention. http://www.psychologytoday.com/ also contains useful information, blogs, and a therapist directory. In addition, you can talk to your physician or trusted friends to get referrals. If your problems are more urgent and you need more immediate assistance, you need to go to your nearest hospital.
Click this picture to connect to Resources and Links for Resilience and Coping
Click this picture to read more about your Toolbox for Single Stress
