When there is unease at the core of a family, the entire unit starts to falter. Of course, everyone wants a stable, healthy, and happy family, but this isn’t realistic for most families and certainly not for all of the time. Modern life brings stresses that can upset the balance of a family unit, from mental health challenges and substance abuse to trauma and children with disabilities.
Even smaller issues, such as breakdowns in communication between teens and parents, can lead to the need for a reset. Whenever the family unit is experiencing stress and just doesn’t work right together any more, family therapy can be extremely beneficial in restoring balance. It can be tough determining if family counseling is right for you. Here are some signs.
Signs Your Family Needs Help
Not all problems within a family are obvious. Some come on so slowly that no one realizes what is happening until a major event occurs and brings everything into focus. If your family is going through any of these experiences, you may want to consider getting in touch with a family therapist.
You may need therapy when…
- Family members are having trouble functioning in their normal capacity. When you sense an energy drain within the family unit and things that used to be normal and routine are now burdensome, this could be a sign.
- Family members are having extreme emotional reactions, exhibiting excessive fear, anger, depression, or sadness.
- There has been a significant breakdown in communication, from the silent treatment to stonewalling.
- Family members start to withdraw from family life, isolating themselves from the rest of the unit.
- Violence or the threat of violence exists in the household.
- Family members feel helpless or hopeless when stress is too much to bear and they may have reached the end of their rope.
- Changes in a child’s behavior at home or at school have been observed, such as tanking grades, behavioral problems, and attendance issues.
- The family has experienced a trauma and certain members are having a difficult time coping, due to a death in the family, divorce, or discovery of an affair.
- Family members are abusing substances such as drugs and alcohol, or have developed an eating disorder.
More Signs
From escalating conflict to inability to set boundaries, here’s a look at more common breakdowns within a family that can lead to the need for therapy.
Persistent and Escalating Conflict
While every family experiences conflicts at some time or another, the alarm comes when those conflicts are persistent and begin to escalate to a point where they cause distress and harm. Watch for patterns of intense, recurring arguments with no resolution.
Unresolved Trauma
Family members often carry their own baggage into the unit consisting of past traumas that still haunt them. When those past traumas impact present relationships and the emotional well-being of the family unit, therapy can help the whole family heal from those experiences.
Loss of Connection
Over time, it’s common for some families to lose their sense of connection and togetherness. One or more family members may start to feel disconnected from the rest of the group and perceive a lack of emotional closeness. In cases like these, family therapy can rebuild those bonds, resulting in a more supportive, inclusive environment.
Behavioral Problems in Kids
Behavioral problems in children can place a strain on any family, whether your child is displaying withdrawal, aggression, defiance, or academic struggles. Family therapy can uncover the underlying causes of this behavior while developing strategies for improvement.
Major Life Transitions
Major life transitions, such as the birth of a new child, divorce, remarriage, or death of a loved one can halt even the healthiest of families in its tracks. Family therapy can offer a supportive environment whereby each member can safely process their emotions, adjust to their new roles, and navigate these transitional challenges.
Inability to Set Boundaries
Every family needs healthy boundaries, but some families struggles with setting and respecting lines. The result is often conflict and dysfunction. Family therapy can help form healthier relationships and resolve ongoing issues.
If your family is experiencing any of these signs, seek family therapy. It’s not a sign of weakness, but rather a commitment to the well-being of your family.
Book a Free Family Therapy Consultation With Us Today
We welcome you to book your free consultation now for a family therapy session with the licensed therapists at Growing Together Preventive & Psychological Services. We specialize in family therapy, and will tailor your experience accordingly, incorporating some individual sessions, couples sessions, dyadic sessions, and whole family sessions.
