You Should Try Therapy

Look at it like maintenance, not an emergency measure

Recently, I went home for a family visit. When I made a joke about my therapist, there was an uncomfortable silence. I realized — with the awe that comes when you haven’t been home in awhile - that none of my family members have ever been to therapy, and neither have many of my friends. Some articles have called millennials the therapy generation, but for many, talking to a professional about their mental health is still seen as an emergency measure, instead of what it could and should be — a preventative one.

Growing up, I always viewed therapy as a last resort. I wish someone had explained to me that therapy is actually maintenance. Going to therapy is like going to yoga - it helps you relax, makes you more flexible, and gives you strength. Going to therapy can also be like learning a new language - it can be really difficult to start studying late in the game, but the more often you attend and practice, the more you learn. My advice? If you have insurance that covers it or cashflow that allows it, find a therapist and start going this week. Your current and future employers, partners, children and selves will thank you.