Breaking Through Resistance: Considering Therapy and Support for Mental Wellness

Estimated Reading Time: 3 Minutes

 

Introduction

Have you ever questioned if you could benefit from therapy, only to dismiss the idea because you didn't feel "crazy" enough? Therapy isn't just for people who are struggling; it's helpful for everyone. Instead of waiting for things to get bad, why not give therapy a try to learn how to deal with problems better before they become overwhelming? Therapy can teach you skills to handle life's ups and downs and strengthen your mental health.

 

Barriers to Seeking Mental Health Support

The stigma surrounding seeking help, especially in therapy and counseling, is widespread and can be attributed to several factors like societal judgments, fear of being seen as weak or flawed, denial of personal struggles, financial worries about affording therapy, uncertainty about the therapy process, fear of facing uncomfortable changes, cultural or religious beliefs that discourage seeking help, past negative experiences with therapy, a belief in self-reliance, and discomfort with opening up and being vulnerable. These barriers often prevent individuals from accessing the support they need to address their mental health concerns.

 

Why Consider Therapy?

Reluctance to seek mental health support is like ignoring a toothache. It's normal to feel hesitant about going to the dentist because of fear or uncertainty, but avoiding it can lead to bigger problems down the road. Just like we prioritize fixing a toothache before it becomes a bigger issue, addressing mental health concerns early through therapy can prevent them from escalating into more serious challenges. So, while feeling reluctant is understandable, it's important to recognize that it's not healthy to avoid seeking help when we need it.

 

Quick Step-By-Step Guide to Considering Therapy

1. Acknowledge and Understand Your Feelings: Take a moment to reflect on why you might feel hesitant about therapy. Write down your thoughts and emotions regarding seeking help. Consider if these feelings are based on misconceptions or fears.
    

2. Challenge Negative Beliefs and Educate Yourself: Identify any negative beliefs you have about therapy and where they come from. Counter these beliefs by researching different therapy approaches and reading testimonials from those who have benefited from therapy.
    

3. Talk to Someone You Trust and Seek Support: Reach out to a trusted friend or family member and share your thoughts about therapy with them. See if they have any experiences or insights to share. Let them know how they can support you in your decision to seek therapy.
    

4. Start Small and Set Realistic Expectations: Break down the process of seeking therapy into small, manageable steps. Consider tasks like researching therapists in your area or scheduling a consultation call. Set realistic goals for what you hope to achieve in therapy and remind yourself that progress takes time.
    

5. Take the First Step: Think about what concrete action you can take today to move towards seeking therapy. Whether it's making a phone call to schedule an appointment with a therapist or reaching out to your healthcare provider for a referral, taking that first step is essential. Remember, even small actions can lead to significant progress.

 

Building Momentum to Avail Support from a Psychologist

1. Explore Different Therapy Options: Recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. There are various therapeutic approaches and modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy. Take the time to explore which approach resonates with you and aligns with your needs and preferences.
    

2. Consider Online Therapy Platforms: If traditional in-person therapy feels daunting or inaccessible, consider exploring online therapy platforms. Online therapy offers convenience, flexibility, and privacy, allowing you to connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your own home.
    

3. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind and patient with yourself while seeking therapy. Recognize that it's okay to feel hesitant or unsure, and permit yourself to take small steps at your own pace. Remember that seeking help is a courageous and proactive step towards prioritizing your well-being.
    

4. Address Financial Concerns: If financial concerns are a barrier to seeking therapy, explore options for affordable or sliding-scale fee services. Some therapists offer discounted rates for individuals with financial constraints, and community mental health centres may provide low-cost or free counselling services.
    

5. Involve Loved Ones in Your Journey: Consider involving supportive friends or family members in your therapy journey, if appropriate. They can offer encouragement, accountability, and practical assistance as you navigate the process of seeking therapy.

 

Conclusion

Why not treat mental health like physical health? Just as we prioritize physical well-being by going to the gym, eating well, and seeking medical care when needed, we should also prioritize our mental health. Regular therapy sessions can be like mental check-ups, helping us maintain emotional resilience and cope with life's challenges more effectively. Just as we wouldn't wait until we're seriously ill to see a doctor, we shouldn't wait until we're in crisis to seek therapy. Normalizing the idea of seeking mental health support can lead to healthier individuals and communities overall.