The study of psychology has come a long way. While still being a relatively new study to the scientific community, it has faced a lot of stigma and bias. I often find myself defending my major and its importance to the world. However, with times changing and an increasing number of individuals seeking mental health counseling, stigma is gradually being reduced one day at a time. Psychology is important! Understanding the brain, our emotions, and our energy is extremely important to acknowledge. Back in the day, it was common for people to quickly shut down the idea of seeking therapy. If you watch shows from the 2000s, you may notice writers using stigma against mental health as a plot line. Main characters in shows may refuse to see a “shrink”, and seeking inpatient help is seen as a weakness rather than a display of courage. While this may have been the case back in 2004, it is now 20 years later, and modern mental health is increasing in value every day.
What Changed?
Having a bias against seeking counseling is normal. Honestly. Think about it, if you are an adult, chances are you may have grown up hearing some extreme stigma against those who seek therapy. You may have heard some awful things said to those who truly needed help in a time of crisis. Well, good news! Times are changing. Not only have we made extensive strides in the field of psychotherapy, but we have also greatly decreased the stigma surrounding mental health. And honestly, I think COVID-19 was a huge catalyst for this. Whilst being in lockdown, the average person probably had to face mental challenges that were new to them. Whether it was from having all family members back home, or not being able to pursue daily schedules and activities, everybody had some sort of mental challenge to deal with. I think this collective struggle has really opened everyone’s eyes to how seriously mental health should be treated. It can be debilitating! Personally, I was under so much stress (even though I didn’t have school) I started losing my hair! I also tend to have intense, deep breakouts all over my forehead when I am stressed. It is crazy what mental stress and distress can do to our bodies. When we don’t take care of our mental health, our physical health follows. And that can go both ways! Think about it, when you are physically unhealthy, you don’t feel good mentally. Therefore, it is important to take care of both of these aspects. To be the best version of yourself, you must look after yourself physically and mentally. Modern mental health is being treated with more respect every day, and I couldn’t be more proud of society for taking these steps forward.
Stride Forward
If you are hesitant to seek therapy, I understand. It can feel embarrassing or shameful. But I can tell you that this is the absolute best thing you can do for yourself. By even making the appointment you are already growing as an individual, and taking those first steps is a very mature thing to do. And I can tell you that when you step into our office, nobody is judging you! This is a safe place for those struggling to come and have an inclusive environment to better themselves. Your therapist will never judge you. They should approach you with warmth and understanding. They want the best for you and want to see you get better! They will offer a fresh perspective and allow room for mistakes and growth. No matter what, your therapist will be there to listen and offer tools for you to use to get better. There is also a therapist for everyone out there. From addiction to anxiety, from LGBTQIA+ struggles to grief, somebody out there can help you! Even if you are hesitant, I encourage you to give it a try. If it isn’t a good match, most practices will be happy to match you to somebody else.
At Counseling Simplified, we care about you and your journey. If you are in the Purdue/West Lafayette/Lafayette area, give us a call at (765)-637-4884 or email admin@counselingsimplified.com to get started booking an appointment. We offer in house and telehealth services to best suit your needs! You do not have to be alone, ashamed, or anxious in your mental health journey. We can help you feel better.
Written By Jessica Kobrick, Intern
Jessica is an Undergraduate Intern at Counseling Simplified in West Lafayette. She is currently an undergraduate at Purdue, studying psychology, human sciences, and family development.