Has someone you cared about ever told you about something that they are going through, but you just did not know what to say? That is okay! Not all of us are equipped with the tools we need to help somebody solve a problem or to take on someone else’s problems at all. Directing loved ones to therapy can often seem inconsiderate – but why? This is the result of the stigma revolving around, simply, the conversation of therapy – especially in the MENA region.
In the MENA region, stigma surrounding mental illness is tremendously prominent. Individuals who suffer with mental illness are often deemed as weak, crazy, and even justified by them not having a strong enough faith in their religion. This often leads to them facing such struggles and not having the abilities to overcome them. In the MENA region, these ideologies are depicted in the culture quite often, and it has become an immense problem for those facing mental health issues.
Why Therapy is Important
Therapy is important for the well-being of an individual suffering with their mental health. Your mental health is, in fact, just as important as your physical health as particular mental disorders may hinder you from achieving your goals, accomplishing tasks, and, in severe cases, simply going about your day-to-day lives. When partaking in therapy, a mental health professional may provide a fresh perspective on an issue that you are facing. They can give people a better understanding of their own emotions, and therapists can also teach communication skills to convey those emotions. Therapy can promote one’s self-esteem, relationships, and outlook on life.
According to The Worsely Centre, “mental health has often been a taboo subject, but now people are beginning to speak about mental health much more. Counselling is not just for mental health problems, it is also useful for things like relationship problems, difficult life events, and behavioral problems.”
Why You Should Direct Loved ones to Therapy
There are several reasons as to why you should direct loved ones to therapy. If an individual is struggling with their mental well-being, a companion, partner, or parent might not be equipped with the tools to assist the individual in overcoming what they are facing. On top of this, it can also become a burden to you. Here are some of the reasons why you should direct your loved one to therapy –
- You are not qualified to assist them in what they are facing.
- Therapy can help improve symptoms of many mental health conditions.
- Therapy can help you learn life-long coping skills.
- Therapy can change how you interact with people in your life.
- It is not your job to take on the burden of their problems – and that is okay!