do therapists help?

[sosplz]

My anxiety is getting worst, I practically ran home from school today not really knowing what I was running from. Once I got home it didn't get much better I felt so ugly and stupid, and angry at myself for being so messed up. It felt like a crowd of abusing people were screaming in my head. So I self abused, I know its bad but I felt so much less angry. Anyways I'm seeing a therapist next week, will it make it any better?

[jkl5500]

Think of your visit with the therapist as the first step on the journey back to health, back to where you belong. You're doing the right thing. You need some help right now, and you are wisely seeking it out. Be open and honest with the therapist. Don't worry about what he or she thinks. They've heard it all many times over. You're not going to shock them. The more open and honest you are, the more you will get out of the visit.

[sosplz in reply to jkl5500]

isn't it ever weird though talking about all these things to some stranger sitting right in front of you? Or is it the fact that they are a stranger make it easier?

[jkl5500 in reply to sosplz]

It does seem strange when you finally tell someone else all the "crazy" thoughts that you've always tried so hard to hide from everyone. But when that person - a trained therapist - tells you back that the hell you're going through is typical for people who suffer anxiety and depression, and that they hear this kind of thing all day long every day, you will feel an enormous sense of relief. No, you're not some kind of monster after all. You're just suffering from an illness that millions of others have. I know you're used to keeping it all inside, but it's not healthy. Just do your best to open up and give as much detail as you can. When it's over, you'll feel a great weight come off your shoulders.

[jrcnpg in reply to jkl5500]

Very sensible advice. I couldn't have written your response any better myself.

John

[sosplz]

Thanks that really helps 🙂

[WanderingSoul1306]

I have my first therapy session on Monday... Let's hope it'll work for the both of us! Get well soon! xo

[Cat2]

Hi Sosplzi , I know it's scary, Scary like I can't do this anymore scary, BUT, you reached out for help because you know what you are doing, is suffering. Everything is scary. You feel like you can't handle things and are looking for relief. We have all been there . . . It does get better. You need to trust that the therapist has tools to help you. They have either gone through anxiety themselves, or have a lot of experience dealing with it. It is still scary, I get it. At some point you are gonna have to trust somebody, even just a little bit can help. What have you got to lose? You are already in intolerable pain. Something must be better than suffering all the time.

They are trained to do this, just like a plumber fixes pipes. It is there job. They are going to ask questions about how and why you feel bad and try to come up with solutions to help you feel better. Just like a medical doctor does. It may take some time, but just keep trying. If you really aren't feeling it, find another therapist.