Busting Therapy Myths & Redefining the Way You See It

Amy Taylor March 14, 2014

Have you always wanted to seek therapy but couldn’t because you think it’s not for you? Or because you think other people might say you are “crazy”? Or because you think no one (even therapists) can understand what you are going through? Or because you are not comfortable opening up with a stranger? A lot of people have so many reasons not to seek therapy. But there are much more reasons to go for it. They include a healthier and happier life.

Today, let’s dispel some of the most common myths about therapy that prevent a lot of people from getting the care and help they need. See if you’ve got some of these false beliefs:

Therapy is not for the “shy” type.

Most of us are reserved when it comes to discussing private matters especially with people we don’t know personally. Therapists are trained to deal with people of varying personalities. A caring, warm and empathic therapist can encourage even a meek individual to speak. Apart from solving their personal problems, shy people can improve their social and emotional skills and become a much better person, through therapy.

It’s embarrassing to be in therapy.

Therapy, like medical treatments, is scientifically proven to help us deal with various mental health problems. Not only that, even if you don’t have an issue, you can still benefit from undergoing therapy. Basically, therapists can help us improve our well-being, become happier, and see life in a more positive light. If you come from a culture or a family that has a negative view about therapy, it is important to acknowledge this fact as a hurdle towards feeling better, reconnecting to yourself, and asking for help when needed.

Therapy is only for the mentally ill.

You don’t have to be mentally ill to seek therapy. Even if you think your concerns are insignificant, you can still benefit from it. Whether you’re having issues managing your stress levels, dealing with difficult people, coping with anxiety, or getting quality sleep – therapy can help. Also, therapy can improve the way you handle life issues. It can also help you discover yourself more – point out your strengths and weaknesses, and improve yourself. Therapy can serve as both intervention and prevention. Through it, we can learn skills that can make our life so much better. Meanwhile, people with severe dysfunctions, such as anger, addiction, depression or sociopathy, may not know that something’s wrong with them.

Therapists say things we already know.

That’s true. Most of us experience problems that we already know the solutions to. But how come many end up feeling worse? It’s like smoking. Everyone knows it’s a deadly habit. But why is it that many smokers don’t quit? A therapist can motivate us and give us support to overcome the challenges we’re going through. He or she can help us clarify our goals, determine the root cause of our problems, create feasible strategies to cope with our issues, and find better solutions.

You can get the same support from friends.

You probably have caring and supportive friends, and that’s good. You should be thankful. However, they may not have the skills trained mental health professionals have to determine your issues with a high level of accuracy, identify the real cause of your problems, and assess its impact on your health and well-being. What’s more, friends may sometimes give you biased advice, which could get you even more stuck in the situation you’re in. Meanwhile, therapists can give a fresh and unbiased view on your concerns. They have the expertise, knowledge and experience to address your issues. They can also help to involve other family members in your therapy, if appropriate.

It’s expensive.

Imagine how much the cost will be if you don’t seek help when you need to. Depression for instance, is a debilitating condition can last for months or years, and can take a huge toll on your health, financial life, work, and social relationship. Taking medications is much more expensive, plus, they have side effects. On the other hand, therapy is less expensive and safer. And even if you don’t have a serious mental health issue, therapy is a less costly way of improving your life. The skills and insights you can get from your therapist can greatly benefit you in the long run.