Have you noticed more headaches lately? Are you having trouble sleeping or feeling tired all the time? Emotional distress doesn’t just stay in your head; it often shows up in your body. The constant, underlying stress of unemployment can lead to very real physical symptoms, from digestive issues to unexplained aches and pains. These are signals from your body that it’s under too much pressure. Listening to these signs is a crucial form of self-care. This article will help you understand this mind-body connection and provide practical stress management techniques for the psychological impact of unemployment that address both your mental and physical well-being.

Key Takeaways

• Regain control with daily, intentional actions: Unemployment can disrupt your life, so create a new routine for yourself. Incorporate small, achievable goals and mindfulness practices to manage stress and rebuild a sense of accomplishment.
• Connection is your strongest defense against stress: You do not have to go through this alone. Lean on friends and family, find support groups with people who understand, and recognize when persistent distress means it is time to talk to a professional.
• Redefine your purpose beyond your job title: Your worth is not defined by your employment status. Use this time to invest in yourself by learning a new skill or volunteering, which helps shift your focus from what was lost to what you can build.

How Unemployment Can Affect Your Mental Health

Losing a job is about so much more than a lost paycheck. It’s a major life event that can shake your sense of stability, purpose, and even your identity. The stress that comes with unemployment is real, and it can show up in ways that affect your emotional and mental wellbeing. Understanding how this experience can impact you is the first step toward managing these feelings and finding a path forward. It’s important to remember that your reaction is valid, and you’re not alone in feeling this way.

Feeling Anxious and Uncertain

It’s completely normal to feel a surge of anxiety when you’re facing unemployment. The sudden lack of a routine and the uncertainty of what comes next can be incredibly unsettling. For many, a job provides a sense of security and predictability. Without it, your mind can easily spiral into "what if" scenarios about finances, your career, and the future. Research shows that unemployment deeply affects mental health, and it's not just about the money. It often brings on powerful feelings of grief, insecurity, and anxiety as you grapple with this unexpected change in your life.

Dealing with Depression and a Loss of Purpose

Our jobs often give us more than just an income; they provide structure, a sense of purpose, and a reason to get out of bed each morning. When that’s gone, it’s easy to feel adrift. This loss of purpose, combined with financial worries, causes a lot of stress. If unemployment continues for a while, these feelings can deepen. Studies indicate that after six months, the risk for clinical depression can increase, especially if feelings of hopelessness and withdrawal take hold. It’s a heavy burden to carry, and it’s important to recognize these signs as a response to a difficult situation, not as a personal failing.

When Your Self-Worth and Identity Take a Hit

So much of our identity can get wrapped up in what we do for a living. When someone asks, "What do you do?" we usually answer with our job title. Losing that role can feel like losing a part of yourself, which can send your self-worth plummeting. You might start questioning your skills, your value, and your place in the world. It’s a disorienting experience that can leave you feeling disconnected from who you are. We're here to remind you that your job does not define your worth. At The Relationship Clinic, we help people foster personal growth and rediscover their inner strength, independent of their professional status.

The Ripple Effect on Your Relationships

The stress of unemployment rarely stays contained. It can ripple outward, affecting your relationships with your partner, family, and friends. Financial strain can create tension and lead to arguments, while feelings of shame or depression might cause you to withdraw from the very people who want to support you. You also lose the daily social connections that come with a workplace, which can lead to social isolation. This loss of routine and connection can be incredibly damaging to your emotional wellbeing. Nurturing your relationships is crucial during this time, and sometimes, getting support for your relationship conflicts can make all the difference.

Recognizing the Warning Signs of Emotional Distress

Losing a job is a major life event, and it’s completely normal for it to take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. The stress of unemployment isn’t just about finances; it can shake your sense of identity, disrupt your daily life, and leave you feeling adrift. Sometimes, the stress shows up in ways we don’t immediately connect to our job situation. You might feel more irritable, have trouble sleeping, or lose interest in things you once enjoyed. These feelings are valid, but when they stick around, they can become warning signs of deeper emotional distress.

Recognizing these changes is the first and most important step toward feeling better. When you can name what’s happening, you can start to address it. Emotional distress can manifest in both your feelings and your physical body, and paying attention to these signals is a form of self-care. It’s about listening to what your mind and body are telling you. At The Relationship Clinic, we believe that understanding these signs is crucial for personal growth and finding your footing again during a challenging time. Acknowledging these warning signs isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of self-awareness and strength that empowers you to take the next step, whether that's trying a new coping strategy or seeking support.

Emotional and Behavioral Red Flags to Watch For

It’s easy to dismiss persistent sadness or worry as just a "normal" reaction to being unemployed, but sometimes it’s more than that. Losing a job can feel like a grieving process, complete with feelings of shock, anger, and deep sadness. You might notice a lasting sense of hopelessness or feel that your self-worth has taken a hit. A key red flag is losing interest in hobbies and activities that used to bring you joy. You might also find yourself feeling irritable, snapping at loved ones, or feeling completely overwhelmed by simple tasks. These feelings can make it hard to stay motivated in your job search, creating a difficult cycle.

Physical Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

Emotional distress doesn’t just stay in your head; it often shows up in your body. The mind-body connection is powerful, and the strain of unemployment can lead to very real physical symptoms. You might experience persistent headaches, unexplained body pains, or stomach issues. Many people find their sleep patterns are disrupted, either struggling with insomnia or feeling tired all the time. Changes in appetite, whether eating more or less than usual, are also common. According to the CDC, long-term stress can cause a wide range of physical problems. These symptoms are your body’s way of signaling that it’s under too much pressure, and they shouldn’t be ignored.

How Unemployment Can Impact Your Day-to-Day

Losing a job is about so much more than losing an income. It’s a major life disruption that can shake your sense of stability and identity to the core. Suddenly, the predictable rhythm of your life is gone, replaced by uncertainty. This shift doesn't just affect your bank account; it ripples through your daily habits, your mental state, and even your physical health. When your days lose their familiar structure and financial worries start to creep in, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and lost. Understanding how unemployment affects your day-to-day life is the first step toward managing the stress that comes with it and finding your footing again.

The Loss of Structure and Routine

A job gives your week a certain rhythm. It dictates when you wake up, when you eat, and when you interact with people. When you're unemployed, that built-in structure disappears, and your days can start to feel long and empty. This sudden lack of routine can be incredibly disorienting. It’s not just about having nothing to do; it’s about losing the framework that helps organize your life and your mind. This experience can feel a lot like grief, as you mourn the loss of your professional life and the daily connections that came with it. Without a schedule to ground you, it’s easy to feel adrift, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.

Getting Caught in a Cycle of Negative Thinking

When you have too much unstructured time on your hands, it’s easy to fall into a spiral of negative thinking. Your mind might replay the layoff, question your abilities, or worry endlessly about the future. Thoughts like, "I'm a failure," or "I'll never find another job," can become a constant, draining soundtrack to your day. This internal monologue is often fueled by feelings of shame or the perceived judgment of others. Losing the daily social interactions from a workplace can make this worse, leaving you isolated with your own critical thoughts. Learning to recognize and challenge these patterns is a key part of protecting your mental health during this challenging time.

How Financial Stress Makes Everything Harder

The financial pressure of unemployment is undeniable and can feel all-consuming. Worrying about how you’ll pay your rent, cover your bills, or afford groceries creates a constant, underlying layer of stress that makes everything else feel more difficult. This isn't just about math; it's a deep-seated anxiety that comes from a loss of security and control. This constant financial strain can make it hard to focus on your job search, maintain a positive outlook, or even enjoy simple moments. The weight of these money worries can impact your sleep, your mood, and your relationships, adding another heavy burden to an already difficult situation.

8 Ways to Manage Stress While You're Unemployed

Losing a job can feel like the ground has disappeared from under you. The stress is real, and it comes from all sides: financial worries, a shaken sense of identity, and the disruption of your daily life. While you can't just wish the stress away, you can build a toolkit of strategies to manage it. These techniques are about giving you back a sense of control and calm, one day at a time. They are small, practical steps that can make a big difference in your emotional well-being during this transition.

Think of this list not as a set of rules, but as a menu of options. You can pick and choose what feels right for you today. Some days, a walk outside might be all you can manage, and that’s perfectly okay. Other days, you might feel motivated to update your resume and connect with your network. The goal is to find sustainable practices that support you through this challenging period and help you move forward with resilience and hope. At The Relationship Clinic, we see how unemployment can strain not just individuals but also their relationships. Learning to manage your own stress is a critical first step in maintaining healthy connections with those you love. These strategies are designed to help you do just that, providing a foundation of stability when everything else feels uncertain.

1. Create a Daily Routine

When you lose a job, you also lose the structure that came with it. This can be disorienting. Rebuilding a daily routine is a powerful way to ground yourself. This doesn't have to be rigid, but it should be intentional. Try to wake up around the same time each day and block out time for specific activities. You can structure your day with small goals, like spending an hour on your job search, taking a walk, working on a hobby, or volunteering. This creates a sense of purpose and predictability, which can be incredibly comforting when so much else feels uncertain.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Stress often pulls our minds into worrying about the future or regretting the past. Mindfulness is the simple practice of bringing your attention back to the present moment, without judgment. It’s a skill that helps you observe your anxious thoughts without getting swept away by them. By incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, you can calm your nervous system and improve your mental clarity. At The Relationship Clinic, we often use mindfulness in our therapeutic approaches because it’s a foundational tool for emotional regulation. Even a few minutes of quiet meditation or mindful breathing can make a significant impact on your day.

3. Get Regular Physical Activity

The connection between your body and mind is undeniable. When you’re feeling stressed or down, moving your body is one of the most effective ways to shift your emotional state. Physical activity releases endorphins, which have mood-improving effects. You don’t need to run a marathon; the key is consistency. The CDC suggests aiming for about 2.5 hours of exercise a week, which breaks down to just 20 or 30 minutes a day. Start with a brisk walk, some stretching, or a bike ride. Finding a form of physical activity you enjoy will make it easier to stick with.

4. Set Small, Achievable Goals

During unemployment, it’s easy to feel like you’re not accomplishing anything. Counteract this by setting small, manageable goals for yourself each day. This is about creating opportunities to feel successful. Instead of a vague goal like "find a job," break it down into smaller steps: "update my resume," "connect with two people on LinkedIn," or "apply for one job." Each time you check something off your list, you get a little hit of accomplishment. This helps rebuild your confidence and momentum. If you're struggling to set these goals, working with a therapist in individual counseling can help you create a clear, actionable plan.

5. Limit Your News and Social Media Time

While it’s good to stay informed, constant exposure to the news cycle and the curated perfection of social media can be draining. Doomscrolling through negative headlines or comparing your situation to others' highlight reels can worsen feelings of anxiety and hopelessness. Be intentional about your media consumption. Set specific times to check the news or scroll through social media, and then put your phone away. Taking breaks from news and social media gives your mind a chance to rest and focus on your own reality, which is the only one you can control.

6. Try Journaling to Process Your Thoughts

Your head can get pretty crowded with worries, fears, and frustrations when you're unemployed. Journaling is a simple but powerful way to get those thoughts out of your head and onto paper. It’s a private space where you can be completely honest without fear of judgment. You don’t need to be a great writer; you can make lists, doodle, or just free-write whatever comes to mind. The act of journaling can help you identify negative thought patterns, process difficult emotions, and gain clarity on what you’re feeling. It’s a form of self-care that costs nothing but can provide immense relief.

7. Focus on What You Can Control

Unemployment can make you feel powerless. So much of the situation, like when a recruiter will call back or how the economy is doing, is out of your hands. The stress from this uncertainty is a major reason unemployment affects mental health. Instead of dwelling on what you can't change, shift your focus to what you can. You can control your daily routine, the effort you put into your job search, how you treat your body, and who you reach out to for support. This is a core principle of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an approach that helps you challenge unhelpful thoughts and regain a sense of agency. Focusing on your own actions is empowering and helps reduce feelings of helplessness.

8. Prioritize Healthy Sleep and Nutrition

When you’re stressed, it’s tempting to reach for comfort food or stay up all night worrying. But taking care of your physical health is crucial for your mental resilience. A balanced diet and consistent sleep are your foundation. Try to eat nutritious meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, as this can stabilize your mood and energy levels. Likewise, aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. A well-rested brain is better at problem-solving, managing emotions, and coping with stress. It’s a simple but non-negotiable part of taking care of yourself during a difficult time.

How to Weave Mindfulness Into Your Day

When you hear the word “mindfulness,” you might picture someone sitting perfectly still for an hour, thinking about nothing. That’s a common misconception and, frankly, sounds a little intimidating. The good news is that mindfulness is much more accessible than that. It’s simply the practice of bringing your full attention to the present moment without judging what you find there. It’s about noticing your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, which can help you break free from the cycle of stress and anxiety that unemployment often creates.

Weaving mindfulness into your day doesn’t require a huge time commitment. It’s about finding small moments to ground yourself and check in with how you’re feeling. Instead of letting your mind spiral with worries about the future or regrets about the past, you can use these simple techniques to anchor yourself in the here and now. This practice can give you the mental space needed to approach your job search and daily life with a clearer, calmer perspective. Here are a few easy ways to get started.

Start Small with Guided Meditations

If you’re new to mindfulness, starting with guided meditations is a fantastic way to ease in. Think of it as having a friendly guide walk you through the process, so you don’t have to worry about whether you’re “doing it right.” These sessions often involve someone talking you through a meditation, prompting you to focus on your breath or notice sensations in your body. This practice helps you observe your thoughts without getting swept away by them. You can find countless guided meditations online, including on our own videos page, with sessions lasting anywhere from three to 20 minutes. Just a few minutes a day can help you feel more centered and less reactive to stress.

Practice Mindful Breathing Exercises

Your breath is your built-in tool for managing stress, and you can use it anytime, anywhere. Mindful breathing is a simple yet powerful way to calm your nervous system when you feel overwhelmed. When you notice your heart racing or your thoughts spiraling, take a moment to pause. You can try a simple technique like "box breathing": inhale slowly for four counts, hold your breath for four counts, exhale for four counts, and then hold again for four counts. Repeat this a few times. By focusing entirely on the rhythm of your breath, you give your mind a break from worry and signal to your body that it’s safe to relax.

Try Mindful Movement and Gentle Exercise

Mindfulness isn’t just about sitting still; you can also practice it through movement. Activities like gentle yoga, stretching, or even a slow, deliberate walk can be forms of meditation. The key is to bring your full attention to the physical sensations in your body as you move. Notice how your feet feel on the ground, the way your muscles stretch, or the rhythm of your breath as you walk. Engaging in mindful movement helps integrate your mind and body, which can release the physical tension that stress often creates. It’s a wonderful way to care for both your mental and physical well-being during a challenging time.

Why Social Support Is So Important

Going through unemployment can feel incredibly lonely, but you don’t have to face it by yourself. We are wired for connection, and reaching out for support is one of the most powerful things you can do for your mental health during this time. It’s not a sign of weakness; it’s a fundamental human need. Building a strong support system acts as a buffer against the stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation that often come with a job search. It reminds you that your worth isn't tied to your employment status and that you have people in your corner who care about you.

This support can come from different places. Your friends and family offer a personal, intimate safety net. Support groups provide a sense of community with others who truly understand what you’re going through. And your professional network can restore your sense of purpose and connection to your career. Tapping into these resources helps you process your emotions, gain new perspectives, and stay resilient. If you're struggling to communicate your needs, our clinic offers videos that can help you find the right words. Remember, letting people in is a crucial step toward feeling better.

Leaning on Your Friends and Family

Your inner circle of friends and family is often the first line of defense against the emotional toll of unemployment. These are the people who knew you before your last job and will know you long after you’ve found your next one. Talking to them about what you’re experiencing can provide immense emotional relief. Just voicing your fears and frustrations can make them feel less overwhelming. They can offer a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or a much-needed dose of perspective when you’re stuck in a negative thought cycle. Don’t be afraid to be specific about what you need, whether it’s practical help like reviewing your resume or simply someone to watch a movie with to get your mind off things.

Finding Support Groups (Online and Local)

While friends and family are wonderful, there’s a unique comfort in connecting with people who are in the exact same boat. Support groups, whether online or in your local community, offer a space where you don’t have to explain yourself because everyone there just gets it. Sharing your story and hearing from others can validate your feelings and combat the sense that you’re the only one struggling. These groups are fantastic for exchanging practical tips, from job search strategies to coping mechanisms for tough days. You can find groups through online platforms like LinkedIn or by searching for local resources offered by community centers and mental health organizations like NAMI.

Reconnecting with Your Professional Network

Staying connected to your professional world is about more than just finding job leads; it’s about maintaining your sense of identity and belonging within your field. Reaching out to former colleagues and industry contacts can help you feel less cut off from the career you’ve worked hard to build. You don’t have to ask for a job in every conversation. Instead, focus on genuinely reconnecting. Schedule a quick coffee chat, send a message to see how they’re doing, or comment on their work on LinkedIn. These small interactions can lead to encouragement, valuable insights, and yes, even job opportunities. Strengthening these ties reminds you that you are still a capable professional, just one who is currently in transition.

Finding New Purpose While You're Unemployed

When your job is a big part of your life, losing it can feel like you’ve lost a piece of your identity. The sense of purpose that came from your daily tasks, responsibilities, and contributions is suddenly gone, leaving a void that’s hard to fill. While it’s completely normal to grieve this loss, this period of transition can also be an opportunity to rediscover what gives you a sense of meaning outside of a job title. It’s a chance to reconnect with yourself and explore other passions and interests that may have been on the back burner.

Finding a new purpose isn’t about immediately replacing your old job. It’s about building a new rhythm for your days that feels meaningful to you. This can be a powerful way to manage the emotional toll of unemployment, giving you a reason to get out of bed in the morning and helping you see a path forward. By focusing on activities that provide a sense of accomplishment and connection, you can start to rebuild your confidence and find stability in a time of uncertainty. Two great ways to do this are by learning new skills and giving your time to a cause you care about. We can help you find your purpose and direction during this challenging time.

Focus on Learning and Developing New Skills

Dedicating time to learning something new can be an incredible way to add structure to your day and regain a sense of forward momentum. When you’re unemployed, the lack of a schedule can be disorienting. Creating small, achievable goals, like spending an hour on an online course, can restore a feeling of control and accomplishment. It’s not just about making your resume more attractive, although that’s a great bonus. It’s about the personal satisfaction that comes from expanding your knowledge and mastering a new skill.

Engaging in online courses or workshops gives your brain something positive to focus on, pulling you out of cycles of negative thinking. Whether you’re learning to code, picking up a new language, or finally taking that digital marketing class, you’re investing in yourself. This act of self-investment sends a powerful message: you are still growing, you are still capable, and you have a bright future ahead.

How Volunteering Can Support Your Mental Health

Volunteering is one of the most effective ways to find a renewed sense of purpose because it shifts your focus outward. When you’re helping others, you’re reminded of the positive impact you can have on the world, which can be a powerful antidote to feelings of worthlessness. It provides a sense of connection and community, which is so important when unemployment leaves you feeling isolated. Strengthening these community ties helps you build a support system that can help you thrive after a job loss.

Finding a cause you’re passionate about and dedicating a few hours a week can make a huge difference in your mental health. It gets you out of the house, introduces you to new people, and gives you a role to step into. You can find opportunities that align with your professional skills or explore something completely different. Check out local community centers or use a platform like VolunteerMatch to find an organization that feels right for you.

When Is It Time to Seek Professional Help?

Deciding to talk to someone is a sign of strength, not a last resort. While self-care strategies are powerful, sometimes the weight of unemployment stress is too heavy to carry alone. A professional therapist can offer a safe, confidential space to process your feelings and build a personalized toolkit for resilience. Think of it as having an expert guide in your corner, helping you find your footing during a shaky time. If you’re wondering whether your stress levels have crossed the line from “normal” to something more serious, there are some clear signs that it might be time to reach out for support.

Signs It's Time to Talk to a Professional

It’s completely normal to feel down or worried after a job loss. But if those feelings stick around and start to run your life, it’s a signal to pay attention. If you find that feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness have persisted for more than a few weeks, it may be time to seek professional help. Other signs include having a hard time concentrating, noticing major changes in your sleep or appetite, or pulling away from friends and family. The key is whether these feelings are getting in the way of your daily life. If you feel stuck, remember that experienced professionals are here to help you move forward.

Helpful Types of Therapy

Therapy provides a supportive environment where you can explore your feelings and develop practical strategies for managing stress. One highly effective approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps you identify and reframe negative thought patterns and build healthier coping mechanisms. It’s less about dwelling on the past and more about giving you actionable tools for the present. Other approaches, like mindfulness-based practices, can also help you stay grounded. The goal isn't to find a "magic fix" but to work with a therapist to find what works for you. You can watch videos to learn more about different therapeutic styles and find one that resonates.

How to Find the Right Therapist for You

Finding the right therapist is a lot like dating: the connection is everything. It’s important to feel comfortable, seen, and heard. When you start your search, look for someone whose specialties align with what you’re going through. Many therapists have experience with unemployment-related stress and anxiety. Don’t be afraid to "shop around." Schedule initial consultations with a few different professionals to get a feel for their style and personality. Ask questions and trust your gut. Finding the right fit is the first step toward feeling better, and you deserve to find someone you can truly connect with. When you're ready, you can reach out to schedule a consultation.

You Deserve to Feel Better—Here's How to Start

If you’ve made it this far, I want you to know something important: your feelings are valid. Unemployment is more than just a financial setback; it can trigger strong feelings of grief, insecurity, and anxiety. Losing a job often feels like a significant loss because it is one, and it’s completely normal to feel the weight of that. Acknowledging what you’re going through, without judgment, is the first step toward healing. You’ve been carrying a heavy burden, and you deserve support as you figure out how to set it down.

The path forward isn’t about making one giant leap that fixes everything. It’s about taking small, intentional steps each day to care for yourself. These simple actions can make a surprisingly big difference in your overall well-being. One of the most powerful first steps is to practice mindfulness, which is simply the act of bringing your full attention to the present moment. It helps you step out of the loop of worry about the future or regrets about the past, giving your mind a much-needed break.

Most importantly, remember that you don’t have to go through this challenging time by yourself. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you lean on friends, family, or a professional, having someone in your corner can provide the perspective and encouragement you need to keep moving forward. The journey to feeling better begins with the belief that you deserve it, followed by one small action. Whether that’s a five-minute breathing exercise, a walk around the block, or a call to a friend, that first step is yours to take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really normal to feel this anxious and lost after losing my job? Yes, it is completely normal. A job often provides much more than an income; it gives us a routine, a sense of purpose, and a part of our identity. Losing that can feel like a major loss, and it’s natural to experience feelings of grief, anxiety, and uncertainty. Your reaction is a valid response to a significant and stressful life change, not a sign of weakness.

I want to create a routine, but I have zero motivation. How can I start? When your motivation is low, the key is to start incredibly small. Don't try to map out a perfect, productive eight-hour day. Instead, pick just one or two simple, non-negotiable things to accomplish. This could be getting dressed by 9 a.m., taking a 15-minute walk outside, or spending 20 minutes updating your LinkedIn profile. These small wins create momentum and can help you slowly rebuild a sense of structure and accomplishment.

How do I talk to my partner about this stress without making things worse? The best approach is to be open and specific about what you're feeling and what you need. Choose a calm moment to talk, not when you're already feeling tense. Use "I" statements to express your feelings, for example, "I'm feeling really overwhelmed by the job search and could use some encouragement." This helps your partner understand your experience without feeling blamed. Sometimes, just asking for a listening ear is more helpful than trying to solve everything at once.

I feel like I should be able to handle this on my own. What can a therapist offer that I can't do myself? It's common to feel that way, but a therapist offers something you can't get on your own: a trained, outside perspective in a confidential space. They can help you identify and challenge the negative thought patterns that are hard to see when you're in the thick of it. A therapist provides you with practical tools and strategies, like those from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to manage your emotions and build resilience for the road ahead.

What's the difference between normal unemployment stress and something more serious like depression? While it's normal to feel sad and worried, a key difference is how long those feelings last and how much they impact your life. If you find that feelings of hopelessness are constant, you've lost interest in activities you once enjoyed, or you're experiencing major changes in your sleep or appetite for several weeks, it could be a sign of depression. When the stress becomes so overwhelming that it gets in the way of your daily functioning, it's a good time to consider seeking professional support.