As we progress and develop together as a species, the understanding and acceptance of formerly taboo societal issues widens. However, while we have certainly come a long way in a short period of time, there are still certain things that remain stigmatized.
Although every bit as real as physical health problems, psychological and emotional health issues are, unfortunately, still misunderstood.
Whether through a lack of empathy or sympathy from friends or relatives, or a belief held by the person suffering that seeking help is something to be ashamed of, a large number of people who could benefit from counselling services are still not getting the treatment they need.
If mental health practices are to be better understood and more widely accepted by society as a whole, including those who suffer and those who are fortunate enough not to, a better understanding of what benefits the treatments bring is imperative.
For those undergoing counselling, the progress made often includes improvements in some or all of the following:
Self-acceptance and self-esteem
If there were to be a list of the most important aspects of a happy and healthy life, self-acceptance and self-esteem would be very high on it.
Many of the people who could benefit from psychotherapy and counselling services are unable to accept themselves or believe they can offer as much as others. The root causes of these issues may be an unhappiness with physical appearance, holding on to past mistakes in life, or instances that have led to low confidence.
For those who struggle to accept themselves or suffer from low self-esteem, it can be difficult to focus on outward tasks. Improving this situation for those in need is something many psychologists work to do, and is one of the most sought after benefits of the treatment.
Self-defeating and negative habits
For those who find themselves suffering with emotional issues, it can be easy to get sucked into a vortex of negative habits and self-destructive behavior. Because the patient may not necessarily realize this is happening, the first step towards breaking free from this cycle is by identifying it.
Professional counsellors and clinical psychologists are trained to do exactly this. By studying behavioral patterns and making patients aware of how they are affecting their lives, progress can be made towards a permanent improvement.
While some issues may have to be worked around or mitigated rather than eliminated, the goal is always to help the patient see there is a way out and help them to reach it. Breaking free from self-destructive habits and behavioral patterns may take time, but it is one of the major benefits of good counselling and psychotherapy.
Self-managing stress and anger
While counselling addresses issues that arise from past events and deals with problems that exist in the present, it’s not uncommon for patients to find symptoms returning or recurring.
To help negate the effect these have on their future lives, counsellors may instill in them ways to self-manage stress, anger, and anxiety. Although there remains the possibility that ongoing counselling will be necessary, helping a patient to deal with mild instances of emotional problems can help them live as normal a life as possible.
Indeed, having the knowledge to help themselves can bring a confidence to patients that will help them deal with other challenges that life may throw at them.
Although Burlington counselling services are usually sought to help with a specific issue, the benefits reach wider than the patient may have anticipated.
Good counselling is an invaluable tool for improving the lives of countless people globally. With the benefits clear for all to see, it’s perhaps time the stigmatization of emotional health treatment was made a thing of the past.
Dr. Linda Johnston and her team are registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and highly experienced in providing psychotherapy and counselling services. Visit them online to schedule an appointment at http://drlindajohnston.com.
