I have started therapy. Best decision I could have made. After COVID and graduating and things being stagnant for me, comparing myself to others, and so much else that was going on in my life, I realized I was slowly sinking into this dark space. I knew that I needed help quickly to get me out of my rut. So, I started to seek help. It has helped. I found a therapist through my insurance website. She's a black woman who is super dope.
I was really nervous about therapy. I had done it one other time when I first started college. I spoke with a friend who had been going to therapy about the experience. The first meeting is really about the therapist getting a feel for what brought you to them. She's suggested different things like me going to see a psychiatrist to determine whether or not I needed pills, she's given me exercises to do (such as journaling), and I've done exercises that we talk about in therapy (like sentence completions and talking through my responses to those). I know that finding a therapist that works for you is like most other things, you have to give it a chance, fill it out, see if it fits for you, and then determine whether or not to stick it out or find something that works better. This just so happens to be a good fit for me, but I know of people who have changed therapists a few times because they had to find a good fit for them. It's different for everyone. I was really adamant about finding a black woman because I feel as though a black woman would best understand me and some of the struggles I face.
I've heard of cases where people leave feeling worse. I seldom feel that way, though some days I feel a bit more drained than others because we've talked about some heavier things. I have been feeling differently, much better in fact, since I have started talking to her and processing some of my emotions. I have a better outlook on life and my future and where I am going, even though I'd be lying if I said I am where I want to be. I'd recommend it for someone thinking about it, especially in these uncertain and scary times. There's nothing wrong with a bit of extra help. I am an advocate for mental health resources as the daughter of a mother who has bi-polar depression and as a black woman. I know there's a stigma around going to therapy for black people specifically, and I think breaking the mold is important. I can see an improvement, but I feel like we still have a long way to go as a people.
My advice for finding a therapist is to have patience with yourself and the journey. Get a feel for the therapist and then see where to go from there. You know what's best for you and you'll be able to tell if you work well with a person or not. Also, check through insurance or therapy for black girls or other sites like that to find a therapist. Figure out what's important to you in a therapist, like do you want a specific gender? race? Try and be open. You're there for help and to talk through what's going on with you, so be open. Also, be prepared for some days where things may be a bit heavy. You may speak on things that open up wounds.
I have so much advice related to mental health and therapy and I am willing to speak to anyone about it. Please reach out if you'd like to speak about this. Also, if you need help, go ahead and get it. Don't wait until things get bad. Wishing you so much love and happiness. You're not alone. :)
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