Author: Lea Zweig, Psy.D.

Therapy San DiegoAll of us experience changes and life events that can be challenging.  Life has ups and downs, and sometimes we need support to help manage certain obstacles or difficulties.  Friends and family are wonderful sources of support; however, sometimes their expectations, beliefs, desires, or values can cloud their ability to give unbiased feedback. Therefore, friends and family members may not always be able to support us in a healthy or productive way.

Therapy addresses not just the symptoms of a problem, but also the causes of the problem.  If you are struggling to manage a particular issue or problem; feel you are in need of a less biased perspective; or are looking to increase insight or understanding, you might consider reaching out to a therapist or psychologist for extra support.

According to Forbes, there are 11 reasons to give “talk” therapy a try:

  1. The effects persist over the long haul.
  2. Physical symptoms get treated too.
  3. Repressed emotions will come back to haunt you later on.
  4. It helps you to stop being passive-aggressive.
  5. It will give you a whole new perspective on other people too.
  6. It helps you deal with future curve balls.
  7. Talking about things gives them shape and helps you better understand them.
  8. You know you are not alone.
  9. It will help rewire your brain.
  10. You won’t have to self-medicate anymore.
  11. It enables you to teach the next generation a better way of being, doing, and thinking.

These days we might look for a quick fix because it is hard to find the time and energy to work on something, especially when we are unsure of how successful we might be.  Therapy is generally about one hour a week, during which you get to unload, problem-solve, emote, think things through, and get support. Therapy gives you a chance to discuss your thoughts and find meaningful ways to move forward in life.

Individual therapy is not the only option.  There are also support groups, couples counseling, family therapy, and many other therapy options to accommodate your specific needs.  Don’t be afraid to reach out if you think it might be helpful for you. Try checking out www.Psychologytoday.com to help you find a therapist or psychologist that meets your needs.

Source: Forbes, “11 Intriguing Reasons to give Talk Therapy A Try”