Everybody has the occasional day when they feel blue. It is normal to feel sad from time to time. However, when these feelings linger and begin to affect the quality of your life, it may be time to consider talking to a professional therapist.

Therapy helps people learn methods to better cope with issues that prevent them from fully enjoying life. It’s important to choose the right therapist – one who has the proper training and the right approach for you. Just as crucially, the therapist must be someone who can earn and retain your trust.  

Following are some things to keep in mind when selecting a therapist.

First things first

When you are depressed or experiencing other emotional health problems, it is natural to assume that you require the help of a mental health specialist. However, this isn’t always the case.

Medical problems can be responsible for sudden shifts in day-to-day mood. For example, an underactive thyroid can make you feel sluggish. If you are feeling down or otherwise out of sorts, it is best to first schedule a visit with your primary physician. However, it is okay to consider mental health therapy at the same time as making an appointment with you primary doctor -- as long as you don't neglect that appointment.

If your physician rules out physical illness, it is likely that other factors are behind lingering sadness or other emotional upset. Therapy often can help you identify and treat the source(s) of this angst. However, finding the right therapist is essential to success.