The power of therapy

Take the leap!

Have you ever had one of those moments when you just need to talk to someone, but opening up to a friend or family member can feel difficult or uncomfortable?

That’s when therapy comes in! It offers a safe space to talk about your feelings, understand them and view them from a new perspective.

Whether you’ve never tried therapy, are just starting out or have been in it for a while, this information will help you recognize its powerful impact.

Therapy as your strongest ally

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For some people, therapy can feel intimidating, but in reality, it’s one of the safest spaces where you can open up without fear of judgment or embarrassment.

If you have bottled-up emotions or suppressed memories, therapy can be the perfect place to explore and process them with the guidance of a professional. Therapists can help you understand your feelings, past experiences, current challenges and behavioural patterns, giving you a clearer vision of your emotional self.

Another reassuring factor is confidentiality: by law, therapists are required to keep your personal information private.

The long-lasting benefits of therapy

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Therapy is scientifically proven to improve individuals’ lives. The Mental Health America Organization states that therapy is an effective way to manage anxiety, trauma, daily stressors, obsessive-compulsive disorder and depression.

In fact, in some cases, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can be more effective than prescribed medication.

Additionally, therapy provides you with the tools to process your feelings. For example, you learn how to communicate better, build your confidence, set healthy boundaries and develop coping mechanisms.

Plus, you comprehend how to build healthier relationships with yourself and others, allowing you to leave toxic attachments behind.

How to get started with therapy

Now that you know why therapy is important, the next step is to actually get started.

My tip throughout this process is to be courageous! Just book the session and give it a try. Who knows? You might end up liking it a lot.

Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber offer free counselling services to all students. And online platforms like Good2Talk and TAO provide resources for mental health care.

Additionally, you can find further support through your medical provider or online counsellors.

Finding the right specialist

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It’s important to find the right therapist who resonates with you and understands your situation to make meaningful progress.

It’s a trial-and-error process that may take some time, but it’s completely worth it!

As you attend more sessions, you’ll likely start to trust your therapist more. However, if you don’t feel that connection, you may want to try a different one.

It’s all about mindfulness

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Think of therapy as a self-development process that helps you grow and see life through a more positive lens.

Remember, everyone heals at their own pace, so don’t rush the process — focus on giving yourself grace. The key here is to prioritize better emotional and physical health.

IGNITE’s Health and Dental Insurance can also help alleviate health concerns and improve your overall well-being.

Stigma surrounding therapy

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Many people believe therapy isn’t necessary or see it as something negative. In reality, it is a valuable path for self-exploration! It helps you grow and gain clarity about who you are and want to become.

Misconceptions about therapy can discourage someone from giving it a try. But the truth is, working on yourself doesn’t make you weaker — it makes you stronger.

Besides, asking a friend or ChatGPT for serious advice is like the blind leading the blind. That’s why choosing a professional is the best option!

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It’s key for students to work on their mental health, especially when there are constant stressors all around. Therapy can help with this process!

As someone who has been to therapy, I would 100 per cent recommend it! Once I found the right specialist for me, I was able to heal painful experiences from the past and move forward.

So, as you can see, therapy can be a very cathartic and fulfilling experience that can lead to a better you.

Feature image courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 via Unsplash.

Need more tips to improve your mental health? Check out these mindful summer activities for stress relief!