Recognizing when you need help is tough, especially when everything feels “normal.” You think, “I can handle it”, because that’s what everyone else seems to be doing. But just because you can carry it doesn’t mean you should.
Without realizing it, you might be brushing off your feelings, pushing past your limits, and normalizing a state of being that’s harming you. Over time, that self-neglect becomes a habit, and habits, especially the unhealthy kind, can slowly chip away at your life.
And yes, they can show up physically too:
– Panic attacks
– Trouble sleeping
– Feeling restless even after having 8 hours of sleep
– Struggles with eating patterns
– Weakened immune system
Psychiatry.org points to a review by Thornicroft ( et al., 2016) and others that found something interesting: even when people accept that mental health issues are real and treatable, many still hold negative views about those who struggle. That kind of stigma is exactly why we need to change the way we talk about therapy.
Changing the Conversation Around Therapy
Mental health isn’t just a luxury or something to deal with if you feel like it. It’s not optional—it’s essential. Just like physical health, your mental well-being deserves care and attention. Still, the moment we talk about therapy, the stigma creeps in, and that needs to change.
We want to shift the conversation:
From:
“Why are you in therapy?”
“I’m not that crazy. I don’t need therapy.”
To:
“Wow, I’m really proud of you for getting help!”
Here’s the thing: Just because something works doesn’t mean it’s healthy. And pushing through isn’t a badge of honor if it’s slowly burning you out.
So, what if we flipped the narrative?
Instead of letting people ask: “Why would you go to therapy?”
We ask back: “Why not?”
There’s something powerful about saying out loud, “I finally asked for help.” There’s pride in it. Relief. Growth.
The goal?
– To have healthy coping mechanisms.
– To hear kinder, more compassionate voices in your head.
– To improve quality of life and feel safe in your own mind.
So… when is it time to ask for help?
Let’s start with: where does the shame even come from?
Sometimes it’s from family or friends who just don’t understand.
Sometimes it’s because you didn’t even know mental health support existed—or that it could be for you.
And sadly, sometimes it starts with us. When we shame others (or ourselves) for struggling.
But here’s the good news: There’s hope!
“So how do I deal with this?”
Glad you asked! Let’s break it down:
1. Research what you’re feeling.
Type what you’re feeling into Google or Reddit—you’ll start to see that others are feeling it too. You’re not the only one carrying this, and that can be really comforting. Just a heads up though: the internet can be a mixed bag. That said, not every corner of the internet is supportive or safe. Stick to communities rooted in compassion and credible information. As therapists, we always remind folks: your mental health deserves both validation and reliable guidance.
2. Don’t let other people’s ignorance define your path.
It’s okay to walk away from spaces where you’re misunderstood. There are people and places where you’ll feel seen—those spaces exist.
3. You are NOT your diagnosis.
Your mind should be your ally. So take care of it the same way it’s trying to take care of you.
4. Ask yourself the hard questions.
Why do I feel this way?
Why am I afraid to get help?
Why am I hesitating?
Whatever answers come up—they’re valid. Be honest. Be kind. Be real with yourself.
The moment when you’re able to answer those questions, give yourself credit. That moment of truth is already a step toward healing.
So when you’re ready, whether it’s today or tomorrow, we’re here. Help is just a call away.
Sources
American Psychiatric Association. Stigma and Mental Illness. Psychiatry.org
Thornicroft, G., et al. (2016). Evidence for effective interventions to reduce mental-health-related stigma and discrimination. The Lancet. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(15)00298-6
