Anxiety affects many people and there's no shame in seeking help. Our society still needs to better recognize and prioritize therapy and mental health awareness. So, kudos to you for being self-aware! The stages someone goes through before deciding to speak to someone varies from person to person. Everyone's experience is different-- so you may or may not relate-- but here are the phases I went through before finally deciding to speak about my anxiety.
1. The Denial
Panic attack? HA! It’s just a bad day! I’m fine! You deny having any sort of problem. I mean, come on, there are worse things in the world than what is going on your head. Right?
2. The Rejection
When you're having extreme anxiety, but you keep fighting your gut. Ok, there’s nothing wrong with seeking help, but it’s definitely not for me. You can handle it because panic attacks aren’t a big deal. They’re normal! A part of life! Right?
3. The Maybe
Your anxiety worsens and you start thinking about therapy. Maybe it could be for me?
4. The Self Awareness
This is pretty bad and it’s not getting better. You’re discussing mental health with friends and usually you weigh in about how much you believe in self-help. But now...
5. The Search
Your mind’s everywhere.Therapy? Yes? No? I don’t need help. Do it? Yes? No?!? You try to understand where you stand on the topic, but just don't know what you really agree with.
6. The Rejection, again.
I can do this on my own. You're still resisting and fighting, thinking that you can truly fight this.
7. The Insanity
Your mind won’t shut off! Is this normal? Am I normal? WHY?
8. The Debate
Should I do it? Should I go? Is this the right thing to do?
How will I benefit? RESEARCH TIME! You bombard your brain with articles about mental health and the benefits of seeking counseling. You try to find other people's experiences with counseling, trying to see if you can relate.
9. The Surrender
Maybe one appointment won’t hurt...
10. The Acceptance
You go to the appointment and obsess about it after. What exactly are you feeling? Are you feeling better? Are you finally done with this anxiety?
11. The Relief
It slowly washes over you.You’re feeling better, but you know your anxiety isn’t completely gone. Maybe I should’ve gone earlier…. NAH.
12. The Realization
You know you did the right thing. You realize that you are strong for seeking someone out! If anything, it shows how self-aware you are and how much you want to take control of your life.
If you are dealing with anxiety and haven't sought out help, you definitely should. Trust me, it helps tremendously. It can help you get back that power you feel you may be losing. If you're a student, make sure to check out if your school offers any mental wellness services. They usually do and they’re most likely free so take advantage!
