In our last blog we started the conversation asking the question; “when is it time to have a mental health check-up”.
If you have experienced some of the symptoms as outlined:
- Grouchiness
- Sleeplessness
- Wanting to be alone
- Eating more or less
- Can’t relax
Then you may want to consider having a mental health check-up… And guess what, “It’s OK to Get Help”.
Perhaps you have been thinking about having counselling for a while. One day you feel really low and want to speak to someone as soon as possible. The next day you feel a little better and the thought of contacting a psychologist goes away. But more often than not, the issues that made you feel low are still there and you inevitably feel worse again in a few days’ time.
What other reasons might stop you from making a counselling appointment? Feeling apprehensive about seeing a psychologist for the first time is common. Perhaps you feel embarrassed. It also can be hard sometimes to accept you might need help.
These myths are some of the common misbeliefs that has stopped clients from seeking support: Don’t let them overcome you. Everyone should have peace and happiness.
Myth #1: I can handle it on my own. Assuming you can handle your own mental health would be just like attempting to perform your own medical care or feeling that friends, family, and spiritual advisors can give you the correct advice; when this support structure should actually complement the strategies, treatment and approaches provided by a professional.
Myth #2: It’s a sign of weakness. Recognising that you need help is a sign of strength. You aren’t alone in feeling overwhelmed.
Myth #3: Mental health care is for crazy people. Getting help when you need it is a very positive thing to do. Lots of highly successful people do it.
Myth #4: It’s too expensive. Nothing is more important than your physical and mental health. Seeking help should be seen as an investment to learn to feel great about yourself and the additional positive outcomes it can have on your personal and work relationships.
Counselling in Melbourne invites you to look at Beyond Blue’s “have the conversation” video which encourages you to take the first step.
Our blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for individual professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you need help for an emotional or behavioural problem, please seek the assistance of a psychologist or other qualified mental health professional
