6 Tips for Starting Therapy During Mental Health Awareness Month
Looking for tips for starting therapy during mental health awareness month?
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, promoting wellness, and advocating for support and resources for those in need. If you’ve been considering starting therapy but haven’t taken the first step yet, there’s no better time than now. Whether you’re struggling with specific mental health issues, or simply seeking personal growth and self-discovery, therapy can be a transformative journey towards healing and well-being. In this guide, we’ll explore how to get started with therapy, drawing insights from our blog, The Current.
1. Understanding the Benefits of Therapy
Before diving into therapy, it’s essential to understand its benefits. Our blog offers perspectives on the benefits of specific types of therapy, like EMDR, CBT, ACT, and Exposure Therapy. Therapy can help individuals, families, and couples navigate life’s challenges, improve their mental health, and enhance overall well-being. From gaining coping skills to fostering self-awareness and personal growth, therapy offers a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
2. Overcoming Common Barriers to Starting Therapy
Maybe you are hesitant to start therapy because you think you should be able to heal on your own or that your experiences aren’t “bad enough” to warrant therapy. Or you may think therapy is too expensive or only for “crazy people,” just some of the ideas addressed in 5 Myths about Therapy. By debunking common myths and deepening your understanding of therapy, you can overcome obstacles and take the first step towards seeking help.
3. Finding the Right Therapist for You
Choosing the right therapist is a critical step in starting therapy. FindMyTherapist, GLPG’s new therapist-finding tool, allows users to personalize their search to hand-pick their therapist and book an appointment instantly. Check out this guide for insights into what to consider when selecting a therapist. From assessing credentials and specialties to exploring therapeutic approaches and personal fit, this guide equips you with the tools to find a therapist who understands your unique needs.
4. Setting Goals and Expectations in Therapy
Setting goals and clarifying your expectations for therapy can help you make the most of your therapeutic journey. By having a clear sense of what you hope to achieve in therapy, you can work collaboratively with your therapist to create a roadmap for success.
5. Embracing the Therapeutic Process
Starting therapy can feel daunting, but it’s essential to approach it with an open mind and willingness to embrace the process. “The Beginning of Therapy: What to Expect” offers insights into what happens during the initial session, from completing paperwork and discussing confidentiality to building rapport with your therapist and setting goals for treatment. Knowing what to expect helps you feel more prepared and confident as you begin your therapeutic journey.
6. Celebrating Your Courage and Commitment
Starting therapy is a courageous step towards prioritizing your mental health and well-being. As Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you’re embarking on therapy for the first time or returning to it after a hiatus, know that you are taking an essential step towards self-care and personal growth. By investing in your mental health during Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond, you are prioritizing your overall well-being and laying the foundation for a healthier, happier life.
Mental Health is Health
Starting therapy during Mental Health Awareness Month can be the first step in your journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. By understanding the benefits of therapy, setting goals and expectations, prioritizing your mental health, and finding your best-fit therapist, you can embark on a path toward improved mental health and well-being. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone—help and support are available every step of the way.
More about Kaley Barnhill
Read full bioKaley is member of the GLPG marketing team and a contributor to the Current. She has a passion for making mental health care information accessible. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and pets, volunteering with animals, reading, and traveling.
