According to the American Psychiatric Association, more than half of people with mental illness do not receive help for their disorders. Often, treatment is refused to avoid judgment, stigma or discrimination. This prejudice contributes to worsening symptoms and effects; examples include reduced hope, self-esteem, difficulties managing relationships and a reduced chance of getting necessary treatment.
Therapy is proven to benefit mental health. According to Mental Health America, advances in neuroscience have uncovered that life experiences affect our brains; this is called neuroplasticity. This means that when we are faced with difficult events or external stress, mental health struggles may develop. However, this also means that some experiences, including therapy, can help modify brain structure and function into a healthier state. At times, therapy can work as well or better than medication when treating mental health conditions like anxiety, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
However, many people avoid therapy because the practice is often associated with weakness, instability and failure. The CDC reports that stigma can take three different forms: structural, public and self-stigma. Structural stigma involves laws and policies that limit the rights of those with mental health conditions. Public stigma includes negative attitudes and beliefs towards the struggling individuals, their families or health care providers. Self-stigma culminates within the person with a mental health condition. Often, this connects with beliefs that they are flawed or at fault for their condition.
This avoidance may lead to a lack of motivation, feelings of depression and anxiety or harmful behaviors, according to Rogers Behavioral Health. An individual is more likely to experience a disconnect from most people, places and activities that typically provide joy, value and routine. Evading therapy fuels mental health struggles and impacts the ability to function in daily life. Creating a cycle of ignorance about thoughts, feelings or stressors leads to ineffective processing and expression of thoughts and feelings. This may look like speaking or behaving impulsively.
Therapy offers tools so you feel more confident and in control of your life. Therapy is not degrading, but empowering. It can help anyone manage stress, relationships, anxiety, grief or everyday struggles. There are multiple types of therapy, all sharing the common goal of improving mental health. According to Mental Health America, “therapy helps you learn how your own mind works. It allows you to navigate your feelings, build healthier habits and change your mindset so that your life looks more like you want.”
Professional help in developing coping strategies and strengthening well-being provides support; 75% of people who try therapy see significant benefits, according to Husk. Therapy provides tools that last forever; therefore, it is a worthwhile investment.
Therapy is not the only tool that helps boost mental health. If therapy is not an option, engaging in mindful practices like meditation is a game-changer, according to Rogers Behavioral Health. Breathing exercises like box breathing are useful tools to help calm the body. Incorporating exercise, such as yoga, swimming, walking or going to the gym, can be used to improve mental health.
Exercise is a huge factor in stress relief. Physical activity increases the production of endorphins, a natural feel-good neurotransmitter. According to Mayo Clinic, exercise can also offer relief when your body is experiencing stress. Moving your body can increase self-confidence, improve mood, offer relaxation and lower symptoms of depression and anxiety. Not only that, but it improves sleep, which is often affected by stress, depression and anxiety. This helps you better manage your body and your life.
Mental health should always be prioritized. Receiving the help you need is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. We need to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to take a step forward in improving their well-being. Whether through therapy, journaling or simply doing what you love, it is imperative that you support your mental wellness.
