Preparing for the Storms
By: Dr. Marshall Bruner, Licensed Psychologist
Many of us hold ourselves to a standard of perfection. We learn as we grow that one of the signs of success means relying only on ourselves for our needs. While there is a place in society for empowering people to learn how to fend for themselves, mental health is not that place. And while awareness and understanding around mental health and wellbeing has grown, seeking therapy is sometimes still associated with weakness. Negative attitudes and misconceptions continue to exist about therapy, and it’s time to change that kind of thinking.
We have heard for years that mental health is as important as our physical health. Most of us see a doctor regularly for preventative health–to ensure that we are doing the things we need to do for a healthier, longer life. We may see a dentist for dental cleanings every six months. Or we may go to the eye doctor each year, since vision can change as we age. We wouldn’t deny ourselves the glasses we needed so we could continue doing the things we love in life–like driving to visit family and friends or simply going to the grocery store.
In much the same way as glasses help us to physically see, therapy can help us gain mental clarity and increase our capacity for managing stress in our lives, both of which can improve our overall health. From 2019 to 2023, the percentage of adults who had received any mental health treatment during the past 12 months increased from 19.2% to 23.9% (CDC, MMWR). More people are understanding that therapy is not just for severe mental health issues, and that it is a proactive tool for personal growth, stress management, and enhancing overall well-being, but…that number could be higher.
There are many reasons people may feel like they can’t seek therapy…
Being overwhelmed at knowing where to start is one thing that can stop people before they begin. How do you find someone that you can trust to discuss deeply personal things with? Your primary care doctor may have a list of recommendations, and while it may not be all-encompassing, it can provide names and numbers to show that the availability of counseling is more plentiful than you may have originally thought. But sometimes the best advice on who might be the best fit for you can be found with friends you trust. Maybe start this discussion with a good friend with the question: Do you know any good therapists in the area? They’ll either tell you yes, or they may say they’ve wondered the same thing and would be interested in learning more along with you. This may open up a discussion that can be healthy for both people.
Cost is something else that people may perceive as a hurdle to seeking out counseling services. While some private therapists may cost more, some offer sliding scales based on your income, and many can file with your insurance. Some therapists working towards full-licensure offer reduced cost therapy. Also, in a community like Gainesville/Hall County, there are many non-profit organizations that offer counseling services. Nobody should be embarrassed or ashamed that they are concerned with the costs, and good therapists are always up front with their costs…so ask! They won’t mind.
Therapy is a tool for living a healthy life. Just like brushing your teeth is good for dental health, and wearing your glasses helps you see better to drive, therapy is one thing people can use to make sense of the world around them and the things happening in their lives. And, seeking help does not mean you’re weak or unable to manage your life. Having the self-awareness to recognize you need some extra support is a clear sign of strength and emotional intelligence. A support system of family and friends is necessary and important to living a healthy life, but they are not neutral when it comes to your life, a therapist is. Plus, therapists are trained, experienced, mental health professionals who are equipped with tools and guidance that can sustain you when the difficult times in life come, because they most certainly will. When that happens, as it does for everyone, you’ll have the skills and support you need.
In the south, we over-prepare for winter storms. The slightest mention of ice or snow, and the grocery aisles are cleared of milk, bread, and other various needs for a long stay indoors. Choosing to go to therapy is like doing smart prep work for the storms we face in life. If you’re thinking about therapy, now is a great time to start. And if you’re in therapy and feel comfortable sharing with those you love, let them know how therapy has helped you manage both the everyday stresses and the overwhelming times of life. It may be the best piece of advice you could give someone.