Hannah Grace
They say a house is not a home. Simply living with your loved ones doesn’t always mean your family life is healthy. You can all be too busy with life that you neglect each other. There’s so much more that goes into building and nurturing a family. Therapy is one helpful way to do it. Here are 10 signs your family may benefit from therapy:
Not Spending Time Together
Every relationship requires quality time. You can’t truly connect with someone without sharing thoughts or engaging in activities. Is your family spending less time together? This is a huge sign.
Poor Communication
When you don’t understand each other or don’t make an effort to, it’s definitely an issue. Failing to communicate often leads to bigger problems. Small things can get worse because of misunderstandings.
Unclear Hierarchy
Family members have different roles. Each role is just as important as the other, but some involve more responsibilities. For instance, parents are supposed to teach their children what’s right (not the other way around).
Extreme Emotions
If most encounters at home trigger unnecessary outbursts, you need to be concerned. Rooting for opposing basketball teams shouldn’t cause intense anger. Reprimanding shouldn’t cause too much sadness. Extreme emotions are very unhealthy.
Grudges
Resentment or any form of bitterness can wear out your mental health. Moreover, it affects the people around you. A family suffers when members hold grievances against each other. If you’re aware that this is going on in your own household, take it as another sign.
Fights
Usually, occasional fights are normal as long as they don’t turn into serious problems. However, seeing your family in constant conflict is alarming. Heated arguments, taking sides, and careless attacks should never be ignored.
Trauma
Has your family experienced a recent tragic event? Accidents, death, sudden financial trouble, etc. all require proper attention. It’s not good to deal with negative emotions alone. A trusted therapist can help you.
A Member Is Withdrawn
Not everyone opens up about what they’re going through. Some find it hard to do, others refuse to bother people with their worries. If you notice any of your family members isolating themselves, don’t take it lightly.
Addiction
Dependence on something is never a good thing. No amount of alcohol, drugs, games, sex, or money can solve your problems. You need to be wary of any form of addiction in your family. Take immediate action once you’re sure of what’s happening.
Violence
There’s no place for abuse in the family. Sadly though, it exists in this world. You can’t allow this form of hurt in yours. You can’t let fear take you over before you do something. Inform the authorities if you have to.
Virginia Satir, an influential author and psychotherapist, had a great view on family.
“It is now clear to me that the family is a microcosm of the world. To understand the world, we can study the family: issues such as power, intimacy, autonomy, trust, and communication skills are vital parts underlying how we live in the world. To change the world is to change the family.”
It all starts at home. You and those who live under the same roof as you. Everyone needs to be part of a family, not just a mere household. It’s not easy putting in the work, but it’s worth it. Family therapy can help a lot. Encourage your loved ones to talk with a professional who can meet your needs.
Can you relate? Share your thoughts below. We’d love to hear them!
