Taking time for therapy

This is a sponsored post for Talking Minds.

photo credit: ecstaticist via photopin cc

Earlier this year, I crashed mentally. I was so stressed out and burnt out with both work and personal stuff that I eventually bit the bullet and booked an appointment with a psychologist. Yes, in spite of being one myself.

That first step to ask for help was probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done.

I still remember making that call to the psychologist. Telling her that I was wary about doing this given that I am a psychologist myself. But she allayed my fears. She helped me understand that in order to be able to help others effectively, I need to help myself.

As I went for that initial appointment, my fears were still there. The fear of being judged. The fear of having to open up to a complete stranger. The fear of being thought of as an incompetent professional for not being able to cope with my worries and stressors. In many ways, it made me reflect on what it must feel like for my own clients. And how brave it is for them to open up to me with their deepest and darkest fears. The initial session was not how I expected. I eventually got over some of the fears and opened up. Just a bit. But I noticed I kept things safe. Talking mainly about stress at work.

By the next session though, I felt comfortable enough to open up about one of my deepest fears. One that I have never mentioned to anyone. Ever. And I broke down. Because hearing it out loud made it so much more real. And my therapist was amazing. All she did was validate. Validate my feelings and my fears. It made me feel heard. It made me feel understood. It’s something that I have craved for most of my life. And it was great to have someone tell me it’s okay to feel the way I do. And that there was no need to feel guilty for feeling this way.

We had a couple more sessions back then and I felt like I got back on track. She kept the door open for me though. Just in case.

And you know what? Recently, I hit a roadblock again. Let’s just say there have been a few things happening that made me think I needed to speak to her again. It was a lot easier making the call this time around. I figure I will see her for a few more sessions to get some of my worries sorted out better.

The point of this post though is that there is light at the end of that tunnel. Sometimes, it takes a little courage to make that call and take that step to ask for help. Sadly, there continues to be a lot of stigma attached to seeing a psychologist. But whether it’s for a mental health problem or just life getting out of control, seeking help is always an option. Just as you would see a doctor for your physical health concerns, it is important to see a mental health professional for your mental wellbeing.

Be brave.

And take that first step.

***Disclaimer: I am not in any way affiliated with Talking Minds nor have I accessed their services. This post is about seeking therapy in general for any problem you may have. I am passionate about mental health and will continue to write about the same on this space***

Until next time,

Cheers!!!