Lessons from Therapy
The first time I saw a therapist, I was 18 years old and a freshman in college. I went through a rebellion phase, and frankly, I didn't know how to challenge my aggression. Therapy has a negative stigma in the black community, let alone being a first-generation Caribbean American.
I've suffered from Depression and Anxiety over the years, and when I fall into a slump, I go back to talk through my troubles. I'm not going to lie; therapy isn't always zen and therapeutic. Working on past trauma and triggers is like throwing alcohol on a wound. It stings, but you will heal in time. After years of therapy, I learned ten lessons.
You have to find your happiness within and not attach happiness to people or career advancements.
When your anxiety is high, and you can’t verbally express yourself, type it in your Notes app on your phone and read it later.
Keep a list of needs and wants.
Regularly list things you love about yourself.
Confirm your negative thoughts with the reality of the truth
Evaluate the validity of your anxiety.
Ask yourself is this really true? will this really happen?
Practice compartmentalizing thoughts.
Check out this article here that breaks down the process and meaning behind it.
Communicate your frustration by saying, "I feel___."
Going to therapy is equivalent to working out.
Sometimes you will feel exhausted or tired but thats signs your doing work to get to a better space.
Finding a therapist is similar to dating. It takes time to find a perfect therapist for you.
Have you gone to therapy?