How Do I Know If I (or My Child or Teen) Need Therapy?
- The CYP Services
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 16
We've come a long way in how we talk about mental health (and still have a way to go). But knowing when to actually reach out can still feel unclear, especially when things don't look like a crisis.
At The CYP Services, we often hear this from new clients:
"I didn’t know if I really needed therapy … I just knew things were getting harder”
Those quiet, internal questions, “Is this just stress? Will it pass? Am I overreacting?” They are all valid, and more common than you might think. Because let’s face it, knowing when to reach out isn’t always clear.
There’s no rulebook for mental health or wellbeing. But if something has felt “off” for a while, in you, your child, or teen. That gut feeling is absolutely worth listening to.
What Are the Signs It Might Be Time for Therapy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here are some common signs it might be time to talk to someone:
For adults:
Feeling constantly overwhelmed or emotionally drained
Changes in sleep, appetite, motivation, or mood
Getting stuck in the same negative thoughts, patterns, or arguments
Becoming withdrawn or more irritable than usual
Pretending you're fine when you're really not
For your child or young person:
Emotional outbursts or complete shutdowns
Pulling away from friends or things they usually enjoy
School-based anxiety, increased worry, or a drop in performance
Saying things like "I hate myself" or "I don't care"
Changes in sleep, appetite, or mood
Struggling after a loss, move, or family separation
Therapy Isn’t Just for When Things Fall Apart
It can be a place to process grief, burnout, identity shifts, or difficult family dynamics.
More importantly, therapy can offer a safe space for those who don’t yet have the words to explain how they feel.
According to an NHS survey, 1 in 4 young people in England are now living with a common mental health condition, like anxiety or depression. Many of our clients say they wish they’d reached out sooner, but we also believe support lands best when the timing feels right.
Need support right now?
If you're worried about your own safety or someone else's, please visit our Crisis Support Guide. It includes trusted services and resources for children, young people and adults.
Still not sure? Let’s talk it through
That’s okay. Starting therapy can feel like a big step. That’s why we offer a free, 20-minute phone call — no pressure, no obligation. Just a space to explore what’s going on, ask questions, and see if we’re the right fit (what we like to call a vibe check).
