Find professional help
Well-being 🌿 | Health 🩺 | #Professional #Courage #Growth
TL;DR
Seeking professional help is courageous.
Reasons for hesitation include lack of awareness, fear of the unknown, fear of weakness, stigma, finances, and uncertainty.
Overcoming these barriers leads to personal growth and a better you.
Seed
Seeking help when you're in need is a crucial step towards improving your mental health. There's absolutely no shame in doing this. Just as our bodies aren't perfect and sometimes require medical assistance, our minds can also benefit from professional care. We're all human, and experts in the field have dedicated their lives to helping imperfect beings like us.
Consulting a professional isn't a sign of weakness; it's a courageous step towards becoming a better person. Doctors, psychologists, and coaches are here to support and guide you on your journey to mental well-being.
There are many reasons why some people don’t want to find professional help. Here are a few I’ve noted around me, and how I see them today with a bit of perspective:
Lack of Awareness: They may not even realise they could benefit from it. That’s why it’s important to take time to assess our situation. Leave our ego aside, and have a good look at our life and how we’re feeling.
Assumptions: Some people have misconceptions about therapy, often based on stereotypes or false beliefs. It's crucial to educate ourselves about how therapy works, understanding that there are various types and methods. Finding the one that aligns with your comfort and needs is essential.
Fear of the Unknown: This fear is entirely normal. However, seeking professional help is a safe and structured process. Many of us overcome fear to accomplish various things in life, so why not this as well?
Fear of Admitting Weakness: Some fear that seeking help is an admission of weakness, as if they can't solve their issues themselves. It's essential to remember that we're all human and face challenges beyond our control.
Fear of Stigmatisation: This can be a challenging concern. However, one of the most effective ways to combat stigma is through open conversations, which is precisely why this blog exists.
Fear of Revealing Emotions: Maybe this internal conflict is actually a signal that it’s time to discuss about it with someone who is impartial and trained to handle such conversations in a constructive way?
Financial Concerns: Depending on where you live, there may be affordable solutions available. Don’t be shy to ask around, find communities online that can share good recommendations. I will add that you should see this as an investment on your future, better self.
Uncertainty: Some individuals just don’t know why exactly, but they are reluctant, or let the thought drag. No obvious reason. I’ve been there. It took me a few months to do it. I never regretted that decision. And again, maybe this hesitation is a signal that something needs to be done.
Remember, seeking professional help is a courageous choice that shows your commitment to personal growth and well-being. It's a positive step towards becoming the best version of yourself. Don't hesitate to reach out, because you deserve the support and guidance that professionals can provide.
Example
As I mentioned, it took me a few months to take the step. In reality, I had been living with depression for years without realising what it was. Then, a few more years thinking I could handle it on my own. When I finally understood I needed external help, it still took me a few more months to take the final step and contact someone.
But now that I’m working regularly with my therapist, I can see the progress we’ve made. I am both impressed and extremely grateful.
So I’d like to add a special thanks to my family for discussing this with me without stigma, and to my therapist for all the work we’ve been doing together and all the help I have received to become a better me.
n.b. The photo in this article is neither my therapist nor an accurate representation of a therapist. If your therapist looks like this, you’re probably doing it wrong.
Bonus
There's a book that addresses this topic in a more profound way than I could. It's filled with relatable examples and offers a compassionate explanation of why "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" (by Lori Gottlieb).
😊