# How do I know if I need therapy?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-do-i-know-if-i-need-therapy
For: Patients | Mental health | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 23 October 2026

**Answer:** Consider talking to a mental health professional if low mood, worry, stress, grief or changes in sleep, appetite or energy last more than two weeks or make it hard to work, study or enjoy relationships. You do not need to be in crisis to start therapy. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, seek help today.

### Signs it may help to talk to someone

**You might consider therapy if you notice**

- Feeling sad, empty, anxious or irritable most days for two weeks or more.
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy.
- Big changes in sleep, appetite or energy.
- Struggling to cope with work, school, relationships or a loss.
- Using alcohol or drugs to cope.
- Thoughts that life is not worth living.

### What to do next

Start with a registered counsellor or psychologist, your doctor, or a county hospital mental health unit. If cost is a worry, ask about sliding-scale fees or SHA-covered services.

> **Important:** If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or thinking about suicide, call 999 or 112, go to the nearest hospital emergency department, or call the free Kenya Red Cross line 1199. This article is general information. It does not diagnose, treat or replace care from a qualified professional.

## More questions

### Is it normal to go to therapy in Kenya?

Yes. More Kenyans are using therapy for stress, relationships, grief and mental health conditions, and talking to a professional is a sign of strength.

### Can therapy help with stress at work?

Yes. Therapy can help you understand stress, set boundaries and build coping strategies.

### What if I cannot afford therapy right now?

Free lines such as 1199 and Befrienders Kenya can listen and point you to low-cost services.

## Related questions

- [Does SHA cover mental health and counselling in Kenya?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/does-sha-cover-mental-health-and-counselling-in-kenya)
- [How can I get mental health support for my child or teenager in Kenya?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-can-i-get-mental-health-support-for-my-child-or-teenager-in-kenya)
- [How do I book a therapy appointment online in Kenya?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-do-i-book-a-therapy-appointment-online-in-kenya)

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**About Tymira Health:** Tymira Health is a healthcare technology company based in Nairobi, Kenya. It builds Tymira360, a practice management and EHR platform for mental health, physiotherapy and dental providers, clinics, hospitals, NGOs and insurers across Africa.

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