Health and well-being are two topics often talked about because of the role it plays to maintain a good quality of life. Some people might think that well-being means physical health, but this isn’t the only aspect to consider. While it’s essential to ensure that you eat, sleep, and exercise well to ensure you’re healthy, it’s also important to consider mental health.
But how exactly one can care for their mental health isn’t as cut and dry as caring for one’s physical health. There are many pieces of advice, such as taking breaks and avoiding stress. However, one of the most vital ways to care for mental health is to try psychotherapy. There are different types of therapy available. Each of them would target a specific problem, whether behavioral patterns, experiences, and negative emotions.
However, some myths and misconceptions cause people to feel reluctant about getting therapy. It’s imperative to clarify these misconceptions to eliminate the fears and misunderstandings, and more people can benefit from psychotherapy.
Read on to find out what are these false notions about seeking therapy.
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People Who Go To Therapy Are “Crazy”
The first misconception is that only people who are ‘crazy’ or are clinically diagnosed with mental illness should go to therapy. There are multiple problems with this way of thinking because it perpetuates discrimination against individuals diagnosed with mental illness.
While it is true that persons with mental difficulties can significantly benefit from psychotherapy, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t for everyone. And that’s precisely the point that needs to be driven home: therapy is for everyone’s wellness.
Therapy Isn’t Necessary, And You Can Do It Yourself
Another problematic misconception is that the methods and activities done in therapy can be done yourself. Saying and believing this can be dangerous because not everyone is a licensed professional who can oversee and give the right medical advice for mental health.
Therapists have the training, knowledge, and experience to help people progress toward better mental health.
You Can Get Prescriptions From Therapists
Some individuals go to therapists to get the help they need to cope with their unique situations. While medication can be helpful and sometimes necessary, medication can’t be prescribed by therapists. But what they can do is suggest a psychiatrist if they find that medication is something you’ll need or if you express that you might need a prescription, too.
It’s Expensive To Get Therapy
When you consider getting medical help, expenses are a valid concern. This is because the fee for medical professionals can get expensive.
Therapy has been quite pricey in the past, but more affordable options are available these days. In addition to this, some clinics offer more understanding payment plans so that those who are financially disadvantaged can still get the help they need.
Therapy Can Get Painful
Fearing the unknown is understandable. So, without understanding and experiencing therapy, it can seem like it’s scary or maybe even painful.
Talking about horrible emotions, traumatic experiences, problems, and more can uncover all kinds of pain. However, you must understand that these negative feelings are temporary and are all part of the process of recovery.
As long as you take steps to get the most out of therapy, you get better chances to improve mental health and coping methods.
All You Do In Therapy Is Complain And Vent
Some individuals believe that therapy is only about complaining and venting and that people who openly talk about this are weak. This can make people ashamed to go to therapy or admit that they go to therapy sessions.
While honestly talking about your feelings and experiences is necessary for effective therapy, it’s short-sighted to say that it’s all patients and therapists do.
Instead, many things are done such as tests, simulations, and activities to understand your feelings, thoughts, moods, and behaviors. After this, the therapist will guide you in understanding how you can cope healthily, especially when it comes to stress and difficult situations.
And depending on the type of therapy you’re getting, the goals, approaches, treatments, and more can vary.
Therapy Doesn’t Work
Unfortunately, there are still those who think that therapy’s doesn’t work. However, therapy does work, especially if you’re cooperating and are honest during your sessions.
While some general advice about self-care from friends and family can help, it’s not the same process as therapy. This is because treatment will require a level of understanding of human behavior, mental health, and more. With this, the therapist can offer help that is better tailored to your unique situation.
Conclusion
Going to therapy or a mental health professional is the most critical step when it comes to mental health. This is because there’s a lot about the mind and human behavior that can be difficult to understand. On top of this, every person is different and will have unique experiences that could affect their life. Going to therapy’s can help individuals understand themselves better and find ways to cope and address different situations. Without the misconceptions, more people can benefit from therapy.
