TO START OR NOT TO START THERAPY

Therapy is not for “crazy people”. Going to therapy is still seen as a weakness by others in some parts of the world. It is therefore important for people to be educated on the benefits of therapy to demystify the myths around therapy. It is equally important for people to know when it is time to see a therapist.

Therapy is defined as “the treatment of someone with mental illness without the use of drugs or operations”. Therapy can either be individual, family, group or couples therapy.

Having a good state of mind is just as important as being physically fit. Therefore, just like you visit your medical doctor for your physical health, it is equally necessary and important to take care of your mental health by going to therapy.

Benefits Of Therapy

People go for therapy to work on their relationship challenges, get help for a challenging life event, to treat a mental health condition or even to address symptoms such as anger, guilt, shame or sadness.  Some of the benefits that may come with going for therapy include:

• Increased life satisfaction and happiness
• Helps to love yourself by practicing self-care and being self-aware
• Better sleeping pattern
• Improved relationship with others
• Improved mental health and physical wellbeing
• Developed coping skills and strategies for life challenges
• Feeling empowered and motivated
• Change negative thought patterns with positive ones
• Learn to resolve conflict better
• Alter negative behaviors such a as self-sabotage and addiction

Times When You Need To See A Therapist

If you have ever thought that you need to see a therapist, then it is most probably time to see a therapist. It can be confusing to many if indeed it is necessary to see a therapist because being sad or stressed is something common that happens to everyone.

A therapist can help you navigate your feelings and even provide you with the necessary tools and skills to manage those feelings. Here are times when we believe it is time to go see that therapist:

• You are having difficulty regulating your emotions
• You suspect you have symptoms of a mental illness
• You want some parenting support
• You want help managing stress
• You are reaching for unhealthy coping skills
• You are struggling to reach your goals
• You want help processing a traumatic event
• You want to improve your relationship(s)
• You want to increase your self-awareness
• You are going through a transition
• You have lost interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Your social life is suffering
• You want to change unhelpful thinking patterns
• You don’t feel as happy as you think you could be

One of the most important things to know about therapy is that therapy is unique for each person; it depends on the therapist, and reason for seeking therapy.

A couple of times people start with one therapist and end up changing to a different therapist until they find one that suits them. Don’t give up. This is part of the journey for many people. Embrace it.

Seeking therapy is a sign of courage and strength and it is never too soon to start therapy. I hope you take the next necessary step to see a therapist in case you think that any of the above situations apply to you.

Should you have any additions to this article, please leave a comment.

Lots of Love,

Marylyn Ochillo