In conversation, topics concerning mental health have become more open and accepting. Yet, despite this growing awareness, therapy often remains misunderstood or stigmatised by some. For me, therapy has worked wonders in my life, for more reasons than one.
A few years ago, after a traumatic event, I was forced to see a therapist. Since then, I have not missed a monthly session.
What brought me to therapy then and what’s keeping me in therapy now are two very different reasons, but the commitment to showing up for it has changed my life completely. I am able to perceive things in life differently than before, open to a new understanding.
Sharing my journey is certainly not easy, but if it can help demystify some of the misconceptions about therapy, I’ll give it a go.
Common misconceptions that surround about therapy
“Therapy is for ‘crazy’ people.”
One of the most pervasive myths is that therapy is only for those with severe mental health issues. However, this is far from the truth. When I started therapy, something happened to bring me there, I was in the stage of crisis management. Now, I am in therapy for what I like to call “life management”.
Therapy is for anyone who needs support, guidance, or an objective perspective. Whether you’re dealing with stress at work, navigating relationship/family challenges, or simply feeling stuck in life, therapy can provide tools and strategies to improve your mental well-being.
You don’t always need a crisis to find yourself considering therapy.
“I should be able to handle things on my own.”
The more I tried to handle my thoughts and feelings on my own, the more I was consumed by a negative mental health – that’s when I knew I needed to see someone.
There’s a misconception that seeking help is a sign of weakness. Many believe that they should be able to manage their emotions and problems without external support. Just as you wouldn’t expect to heal a broken bone without medical assistance, mental health challenges often require professional guidance. Therapy is a way to equip yourself with coping mechanisms, and it takes courage to admit when you need help.
Your “therapist” can come in different forms – a councillor, a life coach, or someone you feel safe talking to.
“Therapy is gabbing about your feelings.”
Before I started therapy, feeling and trying to understand my emotions alone was challenging, I struggled to navigate through hurt and confusion. Speaking about your feelings is one way to learn, understanding them is another.
While vocalising your emotions is part of the process in therapy, the practice is far more dynamic and structured than simply venting.
Depending on the therapist’s approach, sessions may involve learning specific skills like cognitive behavioural techniques, mindfulness practices, or conflict resolution strategies. Therapists often tailor their methods to your individual needs, focusing on solutions rather than just exploration.
“It’s too expensive.”
While therapy can be an investment, there are affordable options available. Many therapists offer sliding scale fees, and some workplaces provide mental health benefits that cover counselling services. Additionally, the long-term benefits of therapy, such as improved relationships, reduced stress, and greater emotional clarity, often outweigh the costs.
My medical aid covers 15 session a year. That enough for a monthly check-in and a few additional back ups, if an emergency calls for it.
“Therapists will judge me.”
At first, I was embarrassed to open up to my therapist, partly because I was reliving the occurrence. Some fear that opening up to a stranger about personal struggles may lead to judgment.
On the contrary, therapists are trained to offer a non-judgmental, empathetic, and supportive environment. Their role is to help you process your thoughts and feelings without bias, giving you the space to explore what’s truly going on without fear of criticism.
“Therapy takes forever to see results.”
I’ve been showing up for therapy consistently for 4 years. I look back at the person I was then, and at who I am now, and I am grateful for the time I’ve committed towards bettering my mental wellbeing through therapy.
It is often seen as a long-term process, but many have experienced improvements after just a few sessions. The duration of therapy varies from person to person, depending on the issues being addressed. Some people might need short-term support for a specific problem, while others may benefit from ongoing sessions to work through deeper concerns.
How therapy has been transformative for me
Now that we’ve cleared up some of the misconceptions, let’s focus on why therapy can be life-changing.
Gaining self-awareness: Therapy encouraged me to reflect on my thoughts, behaviours, and emotions. Through guided exploration, I began to understand the patterns that may have been holding me back. This self-awareness can lead to personal growth and healthier ways of interacting with the world.
Developing coping strategies: Life can be unpredictable, and learning how to cope with overthinking, stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions is crucial for maintaining mental well-being. Therapists provided me with practical tools to handle challenges in healthier, more productive ways.
Improving relationships: From the reason that brought me to therapy to now, therapy helped improve communication, empathy, and understanding within the relationships I have with friends and family. Whether I was struggling with a partner, family member, or friend, therapy offered me guidance on resolving conflicts and building more meaningful connections.
Creating positive change: If you’re feeling stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts or behaviours, therapy can help you break free – it did, and still does for me. Through goal-setting, accountability, and professional support, you can create lasting change in various areas of your life.
Providing a safe space: In our fast-paced world, it’s rare to have a space where we can be completely open and vulnerable without fear of judgment. Therapy offered me a confidential, safe environment to explore complex emotions, traumas, or past experiences that was affecting my current well-being.
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