The Therapy Decision: when to seek help
Therapist’s encounter new clients or patients who have been struggling with their mental health alone for far too long. Patients often say things like “I didn’t know my symptoms were severe enough to seek counseling” or that they “tried therapy in the past, and it didn’t help.” In recent years, the stigmatization of mental health diagnoses and treatment has significantly improved. According to a 2019 survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, the majority of Americans now believe that seeking mental health treatment is a sign of strength (APA.org, 2019). This dramatic shift in perspective has occurred over the last decade. Ten years ago, mental health issues were often shrouded in negativity. Challenges such as bipolar disorder or anxiety were associated with state hospitals and lobotomies. Although this perception has changed, we still have work to do. Fortunately, advancements in medications, therapeutic approaches, accessibility, and a wareness have made ...