For some people, going to therapy clashes with the concern of not wanting to come off as “ungrateful.”
The experience
You might be newly realizing, or perhaps have known for a long time, that you are experiencing distress. The experiences of overwhelm, burnout, or fatigue can accumulate over time to the point where it just hits you all of a sudden. Or, maybe you’ve been trying to suppress or contain what you’ve been feeling for a while, and now it’s become too much to bear. These scenarios might lead you to feel bad about yourself, experience difficulties interacting with others or in fulfilling your responsibilities, or notice that your goals are becoming harder to achieve. All of this might leave you feeling stressed, anxious, frustrated, defeated, or believing that you are defective.
The conflict
You might be wrestling with noticing this inner struggle and the implication that going to therapy means you’re ungrateful. You may have very high expectations for yourself, or it might be placed on you by those in your life. Some people learn messages or beliefs from loved ones, friends, or those in the community about what is expected and the acceptable way to handle situations.
The choice
Take a moment to nonjudgmentally reflect on your hope for yourself and the life you would like for yourself. Next, nonjudgmentally reflect on the life you don’t want, including acting ineffectively, and unlike the person you want to be. Where does therapy fit in? Would therapy lead you on the path that will assist you in moving toward what you would like for yourself and the life you would like to build? Or, would be lead you away from it?
Key things to keep in mind (If you believe that therapy will help you get to where you would like to be)
- Therapy isn’t forever.
- Your experience is valid and reason enough to reach out for help.
- Giving yourself permission to address your distress could place you on a path towards wellness.
- Wellness can come in many different forms, and therapy is one of them
Receiving assistance from a therapist can be helpful. If you are interested in receiving therapy with me, you can call, email, or self-schedule a phone consult. CLICK HERE to learn about telehealth. Ready to get started? Let’s work together!
Interested in learning more? Click below to read my other blogs:
How Does Talk Therapy Help If I’m Not Used to Talking About My Problems? By Robyn Tamanaha
What is Individual Therapy Like and What Can I Expect? By Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT
Tele-therapy: What is it? Why do it? What is it like?
Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. The topics being discussed are meant as a self-help tool for you own use. It is not psychotherapy or counseling. This information is to be used based on your own judgment. If you need to speak with a professional, you should find one local to you and contact them directly.