Seeing a therapist today!

[lofi_tokyo]

So I've had problems for years - since I was a child. I've struggled with depression, anxiety, fear of loss. You name it, I've probably got it.

 

I used to think going to a therapist was admitting defeat. My problems weren't that bad, and I could get through them on my own. I'm really critical of myself, and great at self-analysing, so I can say immediately WHAT my issues are.

 

The problem is, I don't know how to solve them. I'm about to lose a relationship with someone very dear to me because of it. So I booked an appointment today. I'm optimistic about the advice I'll recieve, but I'm sad because I know it wont be a quick fix. One hour can't patch up all the problems I've got. But its a start. I'm happy to be starting on something.

[Feelin Frisky]

Good luck, Tokyo. In my experience, talk therapy itself can be anxiety-producing--if you go say, once a week, for the time you're there you may have to blow some of the time re-educating the therapist on your issues and by the time you get to breaking new ground time can be up on you. I counsel that you be clear that you are in charge of your march to emotional wellness and don't just take whatever the therapist seems to want to give you if you don't find yourself making any headway within a reasonable amount of time. Expect a psychiatrist to be part of your treatment too to see if you have any physiology causing or contributing to your psychology which can be treated with modern medicine.

 

Bear in mind that medicine is unable to put a dip stick into your head and find out exactly what your neurotransmitter balance is so medication is trial and error to find the right stuff. Take charge of that too and demand information and results--don't just think they have the answers, they don't. You do.

 

In any event seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of wellness and resolve. People who don't seek help for reasons of shame and self doubt are in denial. You will be way better off than the tens of millions who live in emotional chaos because of misguided pride. Kick some @ss and achieve your best self. You CAN do it.