CENTER'S PIECE: Encountering difficulties when considering counseling
Seeking counseling can be one of the hardest things to do when it comes to our health. It appears easier to go see your doctor to get checked and get medication to alleviate physical symptoms. But when it comes to mental health, one may be reluctant to accept that perhaps something is wrong and chooses to ignore the symptoms. Here are some things to consider that can certainly discourage you from seeking help when you really need it.
>> Stress level: In addition to your current problem or symptoms, seeking counseling for the first time can add some more stress. Not being sure what to expect and thinking about sharing your personal issues with a stranger can easily discourage you from seeking help when you really need it. Therefore, it is important that you prepare for that first encounter and know what to expect. During the first session usually the counselor will ask about your current problem and the reason for seeking counseling. Make sure you are open and prepare to answer these questions. Be honest about your feelings and feel free to ask your therapist to clarify information you may not understand.
>> Stigma: Stigma plays a significant role when choosing to seek help or not. The concept an individual has regarding mental health is manly shaped by external or environmental factors such as previous experiences, family and cultural backgrounds, work, education etc. One may have the mistaken belief that mental health issues are a sign of personal weakness, or that one should be able to control it without help. Individuals may tend to isolate because they are afraid to tell anyone about their condition and be judged or blamed for it. Considering that most of the time stigma regarding mental health is based on lack of knowledge and understanding, it is important for individuals to learn about their condition and educate others based on facts and trustworthy sources. This may help the process of accepting one’s condition and recognize the need for treatment.
>> Tendency to minimize the problem: An individual may experience stress or anxiety just by thinking about going to counseling. It may seem easier to ignore the situation and minimize the problem. However, mental health issues should be taken seriously. They can affect an individual’s ability to function on a daily basis and have a great impact on relationships in diverse settings, such as home, work and school. Mental health problems can impact one’s coping skills, decision making process and ability to solve problems. These can lead to difficulties managing relationships and to carry out responsibilities. At first, disregarding your symptoms may make you feel less stressed or anxious but in reality the issue has not been addressed and symptoms may worsen.
>> High cost for services: Finding out that the fees for services may be out of your budget can certainly discourage you. However, it is encouraged to research a little more and find all the available options within the community. Some places, such as Centers for Children and Families, have sliding fee scales or even free services. Your mental health is as important as your physical health; therefore, it is worth taking the time to know all the options you have available.
