What we treat
Problems in relationships
Relationships are integral to meaning and fulfilment in our lives, but they can also be the cause of distress when problems with communication, interpretation and expectations arise.
How successfully we build connections with our family, friends, romantic partner, work colleagues and others is closely related to our happiness and ability to function well in different social settings.
A common issue
Interpersonal difficulties are common, and refer to problems with relationships.
We all have misunderstandings and conflict from time-to-time. However, for some of us, interpersonal difficulties may be enduring.
Such difficulties may stem from feelings, thoughts, and behaviours that interfere with your ability to bond with others in general or in particular types of relationships.
Whilst interpersonal difficulty isn't a mental health condition, enduring problems with relationships can develop into a mental health condition such as depression.
When to get help
Several signs may indicate interpersonal difficulties:
Anger. You may become frustrated as you struggle to find a way to communicate with others.
Withdrawal. You may avoid friends, family, colleagues or loved ones.
Lack of confidence. Feeling as though you are not good enough to be in a relationship or that you are somehow different to other people.
Alienation. You may feel that there is a void in your life, unaccepted by others or that you do not belong.
Difficulty communicating. Struggle to express yourself, both verbally and non-verbally. You may feel misunderstood or frustrated that you seem to say the wrong things.
Difficulty listening. You may find it difficult to listen to another’s needs, resulting in relationship conflicts.
Lack of negotiation skills. Difficulty finding a mutually agreeable outcome.
Loneliness. You may be isolated or experience feelings of loneliness.
Most people who receive therapy finish with greater awareness and better social skills to help them build happier, healthier relationships.
Other struggles
Read more about the other difficulties we treat:
Worrying lots about different things
Flashbacks or nightmares of a trauma
Obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviours
Talking therapy
If you could be struggling in relationships, read about the talking therapies we offer to see how they could help you. You may also like to read some feedback and encouragements by those who received therapy with us.
Self-help resources
Be sure to check out our useful section of self-help resources for wellbeing.
Employment advice
Alongside therapy our Employment Team can help you find employment or training, and support you with workplace adjustments or disputes.
Make the first step
We know the courage it takes to ask for help, and we hope you’ll consider therapy with us. Read more about what to expect if you refer.
Talking Change is for everyone aged sixteen or over, who live in Portsmouth and are registered with a GP in the city.
You can self-refer by calling us on 0300 123 3934 or by completing this secure form online.
Urgent help
Talking Change is not an emergency mental health service for people in crisis. Support is available from specialist services if urgent help is needed.