Answer:

If you frequently experience stress and negative thoughts, it is important to consider how long these symptoms have persisted, whether they are difficult to control, and their impact on your work, daily life, and relationships.

Stress that appears for a short duration, has a clear cause, and subsides after the issue is resolved or after you rest, may be a normal psychological reaction. Conversely, if the condition lasts for many days or weeks, becomes increasingly difficult to control, and is accompanied by insomnia, sadness, reduced interest, difficulty concentrating, or affects your life, you should schedule a psychological assessment. A doctor or specialist can determine if these symptoms are related to common stress, an anxiety disorder, depression, or another underlying issue.

During psychological therapy, a psychological therapist will work alongside you to help identify problems in your thoughts, emotions, and life, providing appropriate support. In the initial session, the therapist typically focuses on building connection and trust to create a safe environment for you to share private matters, difficult emotions, or current life events.

Master Yen Nhi provides psychological counseling, helping patients release negative emotions. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Unlike confiding in family or friends, a psychological therapist does not judge right or wrong, nor do they impose specific actions on you. Instead, they work with you to gain a clearer understanding of your concerns, issues related to anxiety, depression, or life events.

Through the therapeutic process, the therapist helps clients recognize their own problems. For example, someone who frequently experiences negative thoughts may not yet realize what triggers these thoughts, under what circumstances they appear, and how they affect their emotions and life. The therapy process helps you gradually see these connections and find ways to make suitable adjustments.

In psychological therapy, you are an active participant, collaborating with the therapist to examine issues and gradually make changes in your life.

Psychological therapy typically requires multiple sessions, rather than just a single meeting, often needing around 8 sessions or more, while 4-6 sessions are usually considered the minimum. Sessions may be spaced 1-2 weeks apart or longer. The specific number of sessions depends on the issue, its impact, and each person's response to treatment. Depending on the condition, psychological therapy can be applied individually or combined with medication and other appropriate treatment methods.

Master Vo Huynh Yen Nhi

Clinical Psychology Consulting Department

Neuroscience Center

Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM