Sometimes I forget I am not alone with my problems and have to be reminded that tears flow from many different faces.
When people come to me and cry about their recent life detriments, I happily oblige as it can be incredibly therapeutic to talk it out with someone else.
While family and friends offer the benefit of an intimate perspective and coddling, seeing a professional can be a transformative experience — one that every person should engage in at least once.
The negative stigma associated with a therapist, life coach or counselor is dissipating with the rise of shows like “Dr. Phil.” I remember a time when going to get professional help was seen as a clear symbol that the person seeking it was “crazy.”
My concept of what therapy was like stemmed as far as cinema had allowed it, usually with a patient lying on a brown pleather couch with his or her hands clasped together while a balding man in a suit listened to their latest nightmare, took notes and nodded rather frequently.
Now there are people who are paid to motivate and instill a sense of self-worth within their clients. Counseling is promoted, especially for couples, and therapists can help hash out the darkest memories in those unaware of their hidden deep-rooted problems.
Even the happiest, most put together people can benefit from exploring the depths of their inner psyche for an hour. It can help spark creative thinking, promote a positive change or provide insight to a previously unaddressed issue trapped in the subconscious.
Instead of being seen as a cure for someone who is mentally ill, therapy should be looked at as a way to better oneself through positive and professional help, whether some one is struggling from depression or just feeling like he or she has hit a roadblock in life.
Under the weight of incredible stress, seeing a therapist was suggested to me to help me sort my priorities in a calming and productive environment.
A friend once relayed to me how much better she has felt since seeing a therapist regularly, that suddenly she feels human and most importantly, she no longer feels alone with her issues. Another friend of mine said he changed his outlook on life and revisited his career path after spending time with a life coach, summing up that he is much happier now.
I have had experiences that have left me feeling trapped in my own head, alone and completely shut off from life and it can be scary to be vulnerable in front of friends or family for fear of judgment. A third party whose sole purpose is to help you work through your emotional strife is arguably the most appealing option.
No one should be deemed crazy or broken for seeking professional help. I encourage everyone to step out of his or her comfort zone and explore their emotions with a professional at least once. It is OK to be vulnerable. It is all right to want help and I applaud all who seek to better themselves.
