Though therapy has become more common in recent years, there is still some stigma around using it. In fact, about 40% of people who could benefit from therapy don’t seek out help because of various misconceptions and therapy myths.
The short version is this: mental health is extremely important. Your mental health impacts every aspect of your life—from work, to relationships, to your relationship with yourself. Therapy is a good thing that can help you deal with life's challenges; it is not something to avoid or be ashamed of.
This article delves into 5 myths about therapy and what is inaccurate about them.
Myth 1: Therapy is only for people with a diagnosed mental illness.
While therapy is crucial for those with mental illness, it is also helpful for anyone who isn’t feeling happy and healthy, regardless of prior experience with care or a current diagnosis. Therapists are there to support you—whether it is for just one appointment or many appointments over months and years.
Myth 2: Therapy is for weak people.
Let’s be honest, how much easier is it to just grab the closest pint of ice cream, indulge in a Netflix marathon, and pretend like our problems don’t even exist? It actually takes a heck of a lot of strength to face the problem and ask for help.
Myth 3: Therapy is just talking about my childhood.
Discussions of your childhood years and family relationships can be part of your therapy, especially if it impacts the current situation. These discussions evolve naturally, such as when reviewing the roots of a particular attitude or behavioral pattern. However, there are many types of therapy, and your therapist will help you find the best way to improve your life and relieve emotional suffering in the present.
Myth 4: My life isn’t that bad/therapy is only for really serious problems.
There are multiple reasons to seek therapy and our practitioners are focused on helping you learn tools and strategies that will improve many different aspects of your life. Many of our clients seek help with work-related issues, friendships, general stress, and parenting, as well as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, etc.
Myth 5: People will find out and my professional life will be affected.
Therapy is confidential—even therapy that is covered by your employer. No one will find out unless you tell them. In fact, ethics and law mandate therapists to keep things confidential. Confidentiality is the first topic discussed when starting therapy and your therapist can explain the conditions under which they have to disclose information to others (such as if someone is in danger, a child is being abused, or a court order).
How can Nivati Help?
Nivati provides employees access to therapy—anytime, anywhere. At Nivati, we are all about debunking therapy myths, among many other myths regarding mental health. We believe that everyone should have access to therapy and other resources that can help support mental health.
Nivati makes finding a licensed counselor easy. Making an appointment just takes a few clicks. Make your mental health a priority. Log in and set an appointment today!
Disclaimer
By participating in/reading the service/website/blog/email series on this website, you acknowledge that this is a personal website/blog and is for informational purposes and should not be seen as mental health care advice. You should consult with a licensed professional before you rely on this website/blog’s information. All things written on this website should not be seen as therapy treatment and should not take the place of therapy or any other health care or mental health advice. Always seek the advice of a mental health care professional or physician. The content on this blog is not meant to and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
