When Life Feels Heavy: How to Tell If Therapy Can Help
Starting therapy is one of the most courageous things you can do for yourself. It is not always easy; if anyone tells you otherwise, they may not fully understand what is involved.
Therapy requires a lot of vulnerability—opening up about your most private struggles to someone you have just met. It is a balancing act between exposing your pain, anxieties, and wounds while trying to keep it all together. It can be intimidatingly beautiful, and that is perfectly normal.
While therapy may seem overwhelming initially, it can potentially bring about profound change. It provides a safe, nurturing space where a unique bond between you and your therapist can flourish. This relationship becomes a potent force for healing.
In this space, you don't need to censor your words or shield someone else's feelings. Therapy allows you to focus entirely on your well-being, freeing you from the emotional burden of suppressing your thoughts, fears, and emotions. Here, you’re encouraged to voice things you might have never said out loud before—without fear of criticism or pushback.
When working with clients, I make it clear that therapy is not a quick fix. It is a journey that takes time, patience, and commitment. Sometimes, it feels like opening Pandora's box of emotions, which can be overwhelming. However, confronting these emotions is more healing than keeping them bottled up. Eventually, the emotional release and self-understanding gained from therapy can truly be life-changing. It is a process, and each small step forward is a step toward personal growth.
You might be wondering if now is a good time to start therapy. Here are some signs that therapy might be helpful and indicate that you are ready to begin.
You have thought about therapy more than once.
Everyday tasks that were once manageable now appear overwhelming.
You have been suggested therapy by friends, family, or colleagues.
You feel alone or struggle to express your thoughts and feelings to those around you.
Your sleep has been disrupted, and you struggle to maintain a routine.
You have noticed changes or conflicts in your relationships.
You have personal or professional goals but are stuck and unsure how to move forward.
You are facing a major decision and are torn about which path to take.
Work-related challenges are beginning to impact your emotional and mental health.
If you can relate to any of these points, you might want to consider starting therapy. It is important to remember that therapy is not about having all the answers right away—it is about giving yourself time and space to figure them out. You are not alone on this journey. Taking the first step is a sign of strength, and what follows may be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
Written by Amina Jama
