We all have heard about going to therapy. It's usually illustrated as you lying on a leather couch, crying your heart while a therapist takes notes of what's shared. While sometimes that happens, therapy is so much more than that and there's a reason why it's something that is encouraged on a continuous basis.
Attending therapy provides many benefits- the most being that it allows you to come to a place where undivided attention can be given to you. Think of it as a form of self care.
Mental health can fluctuate from time to time. It happens to each of us! Unfortunately, poor mental health can have quite a few consequences. If left unchecked, you'll eventually hit a wall and burn out. You can probably say bye bye to a healthy functioning life.
It is important to note that therapy is not a magic cure-all, however it can best equip you with the necessary tools that can be used in face of your troubles. It's a chance to see your situation from a new angle. Give it a chance and it can become an enriching experience that can help you to:
identify possible factors that contribute to your challenge(s)
adopt healthy approaches that can help to cope with the presented challenge(s)
learn from people with similar experiences
navigate priorities amidst challenges
And most of all, it serves as a reminder that we are all human and that's okay to not be okay. Being human means that we will have vulnerable moments. No, that doesn't mean we're weak. Acknowledging our challenges actually provides us the opportunity to grow. When we open up and be honest with ourselves, it's equal to taking a step closer to becoming a better version of ourselves.
If you're planning on trying out therapy, it's important to keep in mind of the following:
Go with an open mind. There are different beliefs regarding therapy, such as it being for the weak. Just like there's nothing wrong in going to the doctor when something doesn't feel right, attending therapy shows that there is strength in recognizing you're not 100% and you want things to be better. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that.
Trust your therapist. Another notorious belief is that therapy sessions are breeding grounds for local gossip. Therapists are legally obligated to keep sessions confidential, meaning that what is said in the session stays there. They are there to assist you, giving you unconditional positive regard which is something you deserve. Judgement has no place there.
Trust yourself. It's not easy opening up, especially as some challenges have been lingering for years or can be complex in nature. Attending therapy can teach you to be more patient with yourself, others, or a particular situation through the unfolding process. This can take some time and rarely are things resolved overnight. Be gentle!
Therapy isn't a waste of time and shouldn't be something to be frowned at. It can actually be quite a satisfying experience as you can learn things about yourself that you would never have thought of. It can be a good step towards bettering yourself as a person as well as improve your quality of life. It's one of the best things you can do for you.
So if you're looking for a sign to try out therapy, here it is! It's absolutely worth it. 💚