In my counseling practice, I often connect with people who have no experience with getting help. Many times, when I answer a phone call, the person on the other end is reaching out for the first time in their life. It’s a big moment.
When we struggle with mental health challenges, we often feel alone. Sometimes, we feel like we have got to be the only person who is struggling with anxiety, depression or feelings of being overwhelmed. Maybe, someone in our life told us that it’s a sign of weakness or a character defect to suffer from mental health challenges. Maybe, we are just too embarrassed to reach out for help. It is also understandable that we just don’t want to talk to anyone about our past or current traumas, because, even though they are on our mind all the time, we really don’t want to relive them with someone else.
Honestly, it’s fears like this that can keep us from reaching out for help in the first place, and that is why it’s so important to find a therapist that offers a supportive and judgement free zone.
Stigma and fear of judgement from people in our lives can also keep us from getting the help we need. This is why when a person calls me for the first time, I let them know that we don’t see any use for judgement of stigma, and even though I am going to ask a bunch of questions, it’s not a gotcha’ game, I’m just trying to gather information to see what the best options are for them. Many times, when I reassure them of this, there is a long pause and a release of breath. This moment is when the healing begins.
The secret to getting help is overcoming the fear of reaching out. You can Google “Find a Therapist”, and this will give you access to tools to find the right therapist for you. You can also see a counselor by video on your phone, so don’t hesitate to look all around your state for a good fit. You deserve judgement and stigma free help.
source https://www.lifesworkclinic.com/the-true-cost-of-stigma/
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