11 Nov Going To Therapy Is Not A Sign Of Weakness 

Going To Therapy

One of the most salient myths surrounding mental health which is often spoken about in hushed tones is that going to therapy is flawed and is a sign of weakness. One of the most common reasons people avoid seeking help is the belief that they are weak, inadequate to solve their own problems, or simply because they might just be labeled as ‘crazy.’ However, there’s more to this. People are often afraid of how they would feel if those around them viewed them as inept or incapable. 

Contrary to these beliefs, in reality, anyone can benefit from counseling. The majority of individuals in therapy are ordinary people dealing with everyday problems like – working on their self-esteem, adjusting to major life changes, processing grief and anger, working on and improving their relationships among others. This goes on to show that even people who function well in their day-to-day activities can go through regular therapy or counseling. 

The belief that going to therapy for common issues is a sign of weakness couldn’t be further from the truth. Seeking help is a way of coping with many of life’s stressors. Going to therapy is an indication that the individual accepts that they need support from a professional to do what is necessary to take care of themselves. Going to therapy is a sign of strength and mental fortitude. Seeking help can assist the individual with a lot of things and situations that life throws their way. Here are some reasons that reinstate that going to therapy is not a sign of weakness:

• Going to therapy is saying no to helplessness

  Some individuals who believe that their current situations cannot be changed can result in a state of helplessness and belief that their situations are unchangeable and irreversible. Acknowledging the need to change your situation or doing something about it can be equated to saying no to helplessness. It takes strength to actively take charge of things that are within our control.

• • Going to therapy is a step towards mental well-being

    It’s human to err and it’s okay to feel lost sometimes. To find one’s way back to oneself is where therapy becomes a bridge. The thought of making desirable changes in one’s life reflects an acknowledgment of the challenges, emotions, and thoughts that they want to work on. And acknowledgment is the first, but the biggest step.

• Therapy is a form of self-care and self-love

  Therapy and counseling encourage us to engage in self-care and practice self-love. This can include seeking relief from stress, maintaining healthy relationships, affecting both physical and mental health positively, and providing a safe space for talking about problems. There are times when self-love or accepting yourself can prove to be hard. However, therapy can support you in this process. 

• Prioritizing your mental health isn’t selfish

  Trying to stay afloat when problems and stressors arise is often a difficult thing to do. Rather than just giving up, going to therapy can help to remain standing even when times get tough. 

We all need a bit of support at some point in our lives. Going to therapy is a healthy form of help-seeking behavior. There are numerous examples in television shows, movies, or the media that exacerbate and perpetuate the misconceptions about therapy and the people who seek it. In the end, none of these representations reflect what actually transpires in the safe, confidential, and non-judgemental therapy space.  If you believe that you or someone you know may need professional psychological support, talk with our AtEase experts.