Life can be stressful. Normal stress is normal and can even encourage us to work harder and be better. However, sometimes, the stress weighs us down to the point that we cannot function adequately in life. When this happens, you may think it's normal. If it is something more serious, you should get help before it affects your life. Here are five signs you should consider a counselor.

1. Abnormal mood swings

We all have bad days. However, if the bad days last for months or even years, it's time to get help. Signs of a mood problem include losing interest in favorite activities, making impulsive decisions, or struggling to get through the day.

2. Grief

If you've experienced a serious loss, you may think that you can handle it on your own. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. Get yourself the help you need after the death of a loved one. The therapist can help you cope in a meaningful way. While the pain may never go away, they can help you manage it.

3. Strained relationships

Most relationships experience highs and lows. However, they should never get to a certain point. It's hard to pinpoint, but you will know what that point is when you reach it. Whether it's your relationship with your parents, spouse, or child, it needs to be handled with care. 

Find counseling in Alpharetta, GA or in your particular locale, and then talk through your problems with your therapist to get their input. You may even want to schedule sessions with the person you have a strained relationship with.

4. Excessive drinking or drug use

We all need to unwind every now and then. However, it's important to not use alcohol or illicit substances to become your outlet. Substance abuse is an unhealthy coping mechanism that creates more problems with physical and mental health than it solves. 

Excessive drinking or drug use is often a sign that something underlying in your life is causing emotional distress so deep that you feel the need to escape through substances. If you use substances to escape mental anguish, you need to get help before you do something that affects your job or relationships.

5. Other people suggest it

We can sometimes be blind to our own internal suffering. However, other people close to us may be able to spot it. If loved ones tell you that they think that counseling might do you some good, don't get defensive. Take the advice and go get some help, especially if you get that feedback from multiple sources.

We all need some help in dealing with life at times. Emotional health is just as important as anything else. Talk to a therapist today to get the help you need.