Therapy

November: 13

Is seeking therapy a sign of weakness or taboo even in some cultures ? Many are still resistant to seeking professional help,it may be an absolute last resort for some, if an option at all. Maybe people have a distorted view and understanding of the purpose of therapy. Therapy can be supportive and even lead to a most fulfilled and independent life, sometime it might even be challenging. Let's explore some of the taboo surrounding seeking therapy.

  1. I'm not crazy, I do not need to see a shrink!

  2. I can talk to my family or friends about my problem(s).

  3. I can handle this on my own, I am not weak.

  4. It will just be a waste of time and money.

  5. What will my family or friends think.

Any of these sound familiar. There are many reasons people seek therapy and each individuals' experience is unique.Here are a few of the reasons one might reach out to a therapist or psychologist.




1. Experiences a major crisis in their life. ( Lost of a love one, serious issues at home or work,a traumatic experience,  suicidal or homicidal thoughts ) Or major conflict, whether it be martial,couple , family or any other relationship.

2. Anxiety, feeling anxious, having emotions effective your mood. Mild to severe mood swings,depression,or  feelings of hopelessness effecting how you function in your day to day life.

3. Having a significant change in your life. Divorce, break-ups,marriage, giving birth,loss of a job,etc.

4.Unresolved issues or experiences from the past. ( Abusive relationship, neglect from parent or hard times)  Many unresolved issues can show up in as irrational, reckless behavior or lead to destructive actions such as gambling, abusing alcohol and/or drugs, sexual promiscuity, self inflicting pain or hurting others.

As you can see there are many reason one might seek therapy. Therapist, Psychologist and counselors have more to offer than we think. There may be hesitation in seeking professional help, but it could potentially  lead resolution,  breakthroughs and many could benefit from change(s). If you or someone you know may be experiencing problems or  an issue they can not resolve on there own, encourage them to seek help. It is absolutely courageous for us to admit when we can not handle it all and get support . So many things were once considered taboo, rap music, inter-racial dating, getting tattooed or body piercings, the list could go on and on , now all of these things are considered normal or accepted.

There are many resources available for support. Research and contact local therapist, psychologist or counselors in your area, many providers accept insurance and other you pay out-of pocket. There are even free resources available, you just have to do your research. Below are a list of a few hot line and websites.

Resources:
USA National Suicide & Crisis Hotlines
Call 1-800-SUICIDE / 1-800-784-2433
Veterans hot line: 1-800-273-8255
Postpartum Depression (help for moms): 1-800-773-6667
Y.A.H. (Youth America Hot line) : 1-877-968-8454 or visit: Youth line
The TREVOR project (for lesbian,gay, bisexual and transgender): 1-866-488-7386 or  Visit: The TREVOR project