Therapy? Ewww, who gets therapy?
Whatever the reason(s) that have been impacting your decision to seek therapy, they are valid. It is time to face it and determine whether therapy is meant for you. Here is something I encourage you to consider. This is not our elders’ or ancestors’ era, where anyone who seeks therapy or mental health wellness is deemed “crazy.” Back then, that was the case. They were referring to people walking around completely disconnected from reality with severe mental health issues. Yes, their assumption was that only people who were completely consumed by their mental health condition needed professional mental health support. If you were dealing with sadness, depression, trauma symptoms, etc., those did not warrant the need for mental health care. Only, and I mean only, when those aforementioned conditions led to you tapping out of reality and being consumed by your mental health.
Times have changed; most of us are walking around with functioning diagnoses. This means a lot of us are showing up to work, taking care of our children, meeting life’s demands, going to school, etc., while also battling our minds and souls at the same time. We have been trained that we do not need any help because, well, “we are not crazy.” So, we move along with our lives suffering various symptoms but refusing to get help because we are still “functioning.” The reality is that this is not our elders’ or ancestors’ generation, and times are different. You no longer need to be completely out of your mind to get support with mental health symptoms or soul work. Therapy is about talking to a trained professional who can help you navigate your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a healthy and constructive manner.
Why Consider Therapy?
- Mental Health Is Health: Just as you would see a doctor for a physical ailment, seeing a therapist for mental health is equally important.
- Break the Stigma: By seeking therapy, you are contributing to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health care.
- Improve Your Quality of Life: Therapy can help you develop coping strategies, improve relationships, and enhance your overall well-being.
Steps to Get Started
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: Understand that it’s okay to seek help and that your feelings are valid.
- Research Therapists: Look for a therapist who specializes in the areas you want to address and make sure they are a good fit for you.
- Schedule a Consultation: Go therapist shopping! Many therapists offer a free initial consultation to see if they are the right match for you.
- Set Goals: Think about what you want to achieve through therapy and discuss these goals with your therapist.
- Be Patient: Therapy is a process, and it takes time to see progress. Be patient with yourself, and the journey.
Final Thoughts
Therapy is not a sign of weakness; it’s a step towards taking control of your mental health and overall well-being. Embrace change, and don’t be afraid to seek the support you need. Remember, it’s okay not to be okay, and seeking help is a brave and important step towards a healthier, happier you.
Thinking about therapy is the first step towards a better understanding of yourself and your mental health. Don’t let outdated beliefs hold you back. Embrace the new era of mental wellness and take the leap. You deserve it.
Signed with Love,
