Note from the Editor:
This article was kindly written for the SDC by retired psychologist/ member @Joy Straw.

Sometimes in our lives there will be times we will come across instances where we may question whether we need therapy. The main question should be asked what do you need it for or whether you want it. Wanting it tends to mean that you’re willing to do some work to gain some benefit.

When we talk about therapy, we are looking at either psychiatry, psychology or counselling. Overall Psychiatrists are trained in both medicine and mental health, while Psychologists focus on mental health.

According to Australian Counselling, ‘Counselling focuses on basic life challenges that most people encounter at some point in their lives. Such as stress at work, relationship problems, family issues or emotionally difficult changes like death of a loved one. Whereas psychotherapy specialises in working to improve problems as a persons, fundamental thoughts, beliefs, or feelings.’

1. Issues you may seek help for;

• Setting boundaries - trouble saying no
• Too much electronics e.g. teens
• Anxiety/social as well as general stress
• Healing pain/grief
• Anger management issues
• Relationship issues
• Depression
• Phobias
• Unresolved issues from childhood
• You want to improve your life but you feel stuck
• Feelings of hopelessness or being overwhelmed are just a few of the many reasons people seek therapy.

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[Catherines]

Absolutely fantastic information - thank you Joy. I have copied this for future reading and to possibly help a close family member with an ongoing issue. I will read and absorb your suggestions a little later today.

 

[Veggiepatch]

One of the things I've found has a twofold benefit. Forming a fullfiilling and satisfying relationship with a likeminded person. As well as diminishing the feeling of isolation and loneliness.

 

[Jarred Santos]

What an informative piece, @Joy Straw!

Just wondering, do you think that the stigma in accessing services for mental health is also a deterrent somehow? And how do professionals deal with it?

 

[Joy Straw]

What an informative piece, @Joy Straw!

Just wondering, do you think that the stigma in accessing services for mental health is also a deterrent somehow? And how do professionals deal with it?

That’s an excellent question. Many years ago it was considered a stigma however with the American TV series showing people in therapy in a positive manner it has become a little more acceptable. In Australia we have a “she’ll be right mate” attitude but thankfully seeing people speak out about there search for a better mental health life so the walls are coming down here.Like many things until we take down the walls there will always be some who see it as a weakness to accept help and others who decide their mental health is more important than what others think of it. Seeing people ask “R.U.OK?” And stop and listen has broken a lot of taboos particularly for men. Children are much more open to seeking help and tend to differentiate less about mental or physical Health, just their health. Hope for the future

 

[Veggiepatch]

That’s an excellent question. Many years ago it was considered a stigma however with the American TV series showing people in therapy in a positive manner it has become a little more acceptable. In Australia we have a “she’ll be right mate” attitude but thankfully seeing people speak out about there search for a better mental health life so the walls are coming down here.Like many things until we take down the walls there will always be some who see it as a weakness to accept help and others who decide their mental health is more important than what others think of it. Seeing people ask “R.U.OK?” And stop and listen has broken a lot of taboos particularly for men. Children are much more open to seeking help and tend to differentiate less about mental or physical Health, just their health. Hope for the future

Very insightful! Thank you @Joy Straw!

 

[Ezzy]

What an informative piece, @Joy Straw!

Just wondering, do you think that the stigma in accessing services for mental health is also a deterrent somehow? And how do professionals deal with it?

No l don't believe this to be a deterrent if a person genuinely wants to be helped. It didn't stop me on the many occasions l have seen these people. What was difficult was the fee which is partly refunded by MEDICARE. A couple of my Counsellors even reduce my fee a little bit for me but cost can still be a big factor.

I have never asked or been asked by a Counsellor if l thought there was a stigma attached to this service.

As a man l was always more comfortable with a lady, which possibly related back my father's harsh treatment of my brother & l. Neither of us could ask him for help.

 

[Jarred Santos]

Like many things until we take down the walls there will always be some who see it as a weakness to accept help and others who decide their mental health is more important than what others think of it. Seeing people ask “R.U.OK?” And stop and listen has broken a lot of taboos particularly for men. Children are much more open to seeking help and tend to differentiate less about mental or physical Health, just their health. Hope for the future

Thanks for the reply! Glad to read stigma isn't really a big thing and how R U OK's been working, especially for men.

Like Ezzy said below, it does get a bit difficult opening up to other male friends partly because any sign of weakness is frowned upon. I find it easier to open up to women, too.