Despite growing awareness and acceptance of mental health issues, there is still a significant amount of stigma surrounding seeking help for these issues. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit that they are struggling with their mental health, which can prevent them from getting the help they need. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of overcoming this stigma and seeking help for mental health issues.
Mental health issues are a common and treatable condition. Seeking help for these issues is a sign of strength and courage, not weakness. However, the stigma surrounding mental health issues can make it difficult for people to seek help. This stigma can be perpetuated by media portrayals of mental illness, negative stereotypes, and a lack of understanding about these conditions. The mental health industry is also confusing. There are so many types of mental health professionals and modalities of treatment, and mental health itself is a complex puzzle. Not all therapists have the same skills, talents, or personality that is right for you. It is ok to shop around. Ask your potential new therapist for a consultation call to see if they are a good fit for you and your needs.
To overcome this stigma, it’s essential to start the conversation about mental health and educate others about the realities of these conditions. Seeking help for your mental health should be seen as a normal and healthy response to a problematic situation rather than something to be ashamed of. At least here in the U.S., most people, when they break their leg, go to the hospital, but when someone close to them dies, or they experience a traumatic event, they suffer in silence and put on a fake smile that everything is fine. It is okay not to be ok. Mental health professionals are trained to provide support and treatment for a range of mental health issues, and seeking their help can be a decisive step toward recovery and healing.
Are you ready to start your journey toward healing? You can contact us today or, if you need someone closer to home, search for professionals in your area on Psychology Today.
Kelly Sheridan, owner of Sacred Circle Counseling, is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping people heal from trauma, become better parents, and live more genuine lives. She graduated with her Masters of Science degree from Capella University in early fall 2021. She completed her internship and began her residency at a residential treatment facility for children ages 6-21 with co-morbid mental health diagnoses. She then completed her residency at a Children’s Advocacy Center, helping children and families who have disclosed physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect in a forensic interview, not only providing treatment to help them heal from the traumatic events they experienced but helping them navigate the confusing path of criminal trials and testifying. “I love working with families and individuals who want to heal from the things haunting them from their past.”