valencia@confidein.care WhatsApp
  • 29th July, 2021
  • by Nandini Hemnani

Debunking myths about counseling

Sometimes, the fear of being labeled and discriminated against leads to people hesitating in seeking help for their mental health issues. Often misinformation about psychological disorders exacerbates this fear. Their perceptions about mental health and illness can impede them from accepting their condition or persisting with treatment too. But on the contrary, the very real possibility of experiencing discrimination in a social and professional setting is a significant impediment. People may be concerned that their relatives and friends would shun them or treat them differently. They may also be apprehensive that disclosing a mental health problem or illness would result in rejection and unfavorable views at work.

Most often these thoughts are embedded within us which makes us project the same perception. The basis of these assumptions can be misinformation and lack of awareness. And we at Confide In will try to debunk such myths which form the foundation of misconceptions.

 

1.MYTH: If a person goes to therapy, they must either have a mental illness or be 'crazy.'

FACT: Seeing a therapist does not imply that you are not trying to solve your problems on your own; rather, it implies that you are doing everything possible to address them, including seeking help. True, some people with serious mental illnesses seek counseling to manage their symptoms, but counselors also assist people in dealing with ordinary challenges such as relationship troubles, sadness, grief, and career transitions. The concept Anosognosia comes from Greek roots and means "to be unaware of a condition." It's the medical term for someone who can't see or doesn't recognize them. Many people seek therapy because something is distressing them in their relationship(s), therefore the concern "What if people think I'm crazy?" can also signify "Is it me who has the problem?". Maybe they've even been told they're "acting crazy" or that their troubles are their fault. When someone uses the word crazy to scapegoat or blame another person, it reveals a lot about that person's lack of empathy, poor communication skills, and/or incapacity to help solve problems.

 

2. MYTH: Seeking professional help is a sign of weakness.

FACT: Seeking counseling is a proactive approach to dealing with challenges. On the contrary belief, it is in fact a sign of strength to seek help and to open oneself to their vulnerabilities. If you are facing challenges that interfere with your capacity to cope daily, a counselor can assist you in dealing with difficult situations. Furthermore, some people seek counseling services to improve their already wonderful lives. Counseling is not just to address mental health issues and disorders, but also helps you to strive for the better every day.

 

3. MYTH: Counseling is a quick-fix solution to all of your problems.

FACT: When it comes to mental health, there are no easy remedies. Counseling strengthens your mind in the same way that exercise strengthens your body. It takes practice, patience, and perseverance. Because each person who enters counseling is an individual, there is no uniform criterion for calculating how long it will take for a client to feel better. Committing oneself to go to counseling is a great method to learn more about yourself and your worldviews. Furthermore, you can learn how to improve your decision-making process, which can lead to more positive emotions regularly. Counseling is an investment in one's well-being that is progressive and not immediate.

 

4. MYTH: Therapists are like a "friend" who provides advice.

FACT: In their practice, therapists must follow certain ethics when they get their diplômes and are recognized in their profession. The personal or romantic relationship between a client and therapist is not only uncomfortable but is also a breach of the ethical responsibility and regulations of a therapist established by their regulatory body. In a client's life, therapists play a unique role. One who doesn't look like a buddy, family member, or romantic partner. Therapists must remain non-judgemental and put the client's well-being first and foremost.

 

5. MYTH: Counseling will become part of my academic record, causing me to lose out on career, residency, or graduate school opportunities.

FACT: We frequently hear this from individuals who are motivated in seeking counseling but are afraid to come due to this misperception. Going to therapy demonstrates that you are keen to learn more about yourself and how to better your life. The importance of mental health should be recognized by institutions and workplaces, and individuals should be encouraged to seek help. Answering questions related to the purpose of therapy etc shall be made voluntary. In this sector of assistance, confidentiality is critical. Counseling Services strives to maintain complete confidentiality for its clients.

 

So, if you want to seek counseling, go ahead and don't be afraid of appearing crazy because it's the people who are crazy enough to want to alter their surroundings who actually do.

Do not use this website if you are in a life-threatening situation. Call your emergency services.

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LAST UPDATED: 23 MAY 2020