Overcoming The Fear Of Going To Therapy
Therapy is a form of treatment aimed at relieving (and not restricted to) the build-up of emotional stress and mental health concerns, that leads to changes that enhance healthier behaviours, habits and relationships. But why is it so looked down upon and not as normalised or accepted as we think?
Some people think of therapists as overqualified and overpriced people that judge you and ask, “how do you feel about that?” but the reality is, they are much more. And a lot of the time people don’t want to confront their emotions or the problems they might be facing, therefore taking it out on others or themselves.
Sometimes therapy doesn’t cross our minds because of the rap it gets. We make excuses for ourselves by thinking “I’m just going through a hard time” or “it’s only because of the situation I’m in now, it’ll get better” as if just dealing with it by ourselves will fix the ongoing difficulties we struggle with everyday.
But the truth is, nothing feels better than to just get it all off your chest and maybe we need that practical advice from a professional. Maybe you don’t feel comfortable talking to your mates or parents about it and that’s okay; maybe it’s something that we need to properly address.
According to the Black Dog Institute, mental illness is most prevalent within the mid-to-late adolescence period (18-24 years old). 54% of people with mental illness do not access any treatment, i.e. therapy, due to putting it off thus receiving an inaccurate diagnosis.
Statements like “I’m not your therapist” or “you should go to therapy” aimed at people who are experiencing mental health problems or bottled up emotions, carry an already heavy load. The negative stigmas that therapy is subject to by society does not encourage people to find the help that they may need. Some common misconceptions about people going to therapy are:
- They’re weak (it’s an extremely strong and courageous thing to address)
- They’re rich (yes, it can be expensive but there are ways to get it covered)
- They aren’t receiving help from their family, friends and support network (professional help is different and practical compared to biased, emotional advice you’d receive from your loved ones)
- They expect pity (negatively enabling the stigma that seeking help is bad)
And all of these misconceptions can be laid to bed, once and for all when we accept that help is not a bad thing.
If you’re struggling or think therapy might be beneficial for your wellbeing, here are some signs that you should not ignore:
- Low self worth
- Feeling numb or disconnected
- Worry and anxiety which impacts your ability to function
- Chronic sadness and hopelessness
- Constant fear and/or flashbacks
- Withdrawal from usual friends and activities
- Preoccupation with food and the way you look
- Extreme mood swings and/or impulsivity
In this unknown and stagnant time, you might be experiencing some, a few or all of these emotional impacts. And you might be thinking, “how can therapy fix my problems?”. There are different forms of therapy to assist you:
Behavioural and cognitive therapy – a treatment for a range of emotional health concerns, aimed to help identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, as well as practical and positive self-help and self-talk strategies.
Dialectical behavioral therapy – designed specifically to treat borderline personality disorder, how to manage emotions, tolerate distress, change behavioural problems and improve relationships.
Somatic or body-centered therapy – a body-centric approach for people holding on to stress, tension and trauma that don’t generally respond to traditional verbal therapy. Think breathing exercises, massages, physical exercise and the mind-body connection.
Psychodynamic therapy – an in-depth focus on the underlying roots of emotional suffering through self-reflection methods and the discussion of traumatic events, experiences or problematic times in their lives
Acceptance and commitment therapy – psychological skills to deal with negative feelings and thoughts better, accepting what is out of your control and having clarity with what is truly important and valued to you through mindfulness techniques for all aspects of life.
Taking the first step in seeking help is the hardest but it will be one that benefits your overall wellbeing. Even if you’re not ready for therapy, there are so many resources and organisations out there to support you. No matter what, your emotions, feelings and what you’re going through is valid – so don’t let anybody else tell you otherwise.
Disclaimer: This is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.
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