05/25/2021
THE STIGMA OF THERAPY
Does going to therapy mean you're weak or flawed?
There is an unfortunate and inaccurate belief that has existed in our culture which is, thankfully, beginning to crumble: seeking psychotherapy, counseling or any form of mental health service is an indication of a personal flaw, shortcoming, or weakness. This damaging belief has led many who recognize the need or benefit of these services to either avoid them altogether or to accept them but with the added price of a devalued view of self. This outdated belief seems to arise from the notion that any form of mental health service is reserved for people with severe mental health disorders, such as those who experience psychosis, severe depression, or who struggle to function at a minimal level. And far too often, such individuals have been viewed as not having the proper constitution or fortitude to "pull themselves up by the bootstraps.” Holding such a belief requires ignoring the complexities of life and human behavior, including how past events and current biology and neurochemistry affect a person's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
As the public view of mental health continues to evolve and become more informed, we are seeing a less stigmatized view of common disorders such as anxiety and depression. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, 15% of U.S. adults reported anxiety symptoms and 18.5% had depressive symptoms, according to data from the 2019 National Health Interview Survey. More recent evidence suggests the prevalence of mental health conditions is even higher today. In a CDC survey conducted in June 2020, 30.9% of adults reported anxiety or depression.* With the life-altering effects of the pandemic as well as political and cultural unrest, it’s no wonder these rates continue to rise. The bottom line is, if you’re feeling anxious or depressed, you’re not alone.
It’s not me. It’s her/him/them. Right?
Our need to connect and be close to others is built into our biology and thus when we experience conflict or distance in our most important relationships, it can feel like a threat to our survival. Or, at the very least, a serious annoyance and distraction. Seeking help from a therapist, either in the context of couples or family counseling or through individual psychotherapy, is a proactive means to resolve these issues and improve what is arguably the most important aspect of our lives: our relationships with others.
Is a person ever done growing?
Even those who seem to do well in the important areas of their lives are known to struggle with things like self-doubt, uncertainty, low self-worth, stress, and inner conflict. Personal development and self-actualization are unending processes and include things like your evolving view of self, clarifying your life purpose, making meaning, goal setting and attainment, and living in a way that best uses your gifts and passions to not only benefit yourself but to serve the world.
So, seeking help is NOT a sign of weakness?
Anyone who wants to get good at something or master a skill, say, for example, playing tennis, or the violin, recognizes the importance of a good coach, teacher, or mentor. It would be unreasonable to expect yourself to become an expert at something without getting proper training, coaching, or instruction. And we would never consider someone weak for seeking out such guidance. Not at all. This demonstrates that the person is serious and committed to improving and mastering their desired pursuit. Along this path, there will be things the individual naturally does more easily and those things with which the person struggles and needs more attention, time and guidance. Similarly, if we want to master life, or simply improve our ability to function and thrive in an increasingly unpredictable and ever-changing world, we would be wise to seek assistance. The first step in true self-mastery is self-knowledge and understanding. I know of no better way to increase self-knowledge than through the process of therapy.
It takes courage and strength to seek therapy.
It can be difficult to acknowledge the areas of our lives in which we fall short, struggle, or need help. And while it’s important to celebrate our strengths, gifts, and those things at which we excel, it takes great courage to face our wounds and perceived shortcomings. But, these aspects of ourselves are often the most profound opportunities for growth. Embracing these parts of ourselves, as they are right now, is not always easy but with the guidance and support of a good therapist, this process can lead to transformation and the acquisition of new knowledge, wisdom, and strength.
So, take courage, be strong, and go talk to a therapist!
*Source: Medpage Today. Hlavinka, Elizabeth "NHIS Data Set Pre-Pandemic Anxiety, Depression Benchmarks - Disparities identified by age, s*x, race, and geography."
Disparities identified by age, s*x, race, and geography
