Starting a conversation about needing professional help isn’t easy, even when your inner turmoil doesn’t affect those around you.
Many people delay seeing a therapist due to fear of what their family members or spouse would say about it.
Will it make them feel guilty for the hardships you’re going through? Do they have a bias against seeking professional help?
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the ways you can open up about getting help without making your spouse panic or feel guilty.
Explain what goals you’re trying to reach
Instead of starting the conversation by talking about your current struggles, talk to your spouse about the goals you want to reach but don’t know how.
For example, let’s say you’re aware that the people who are more likely to get promoted at work are also good communicators, but you aren’t one of them, and you’re quite shy when presenting your projects.
Mentioning something like this helps you introduce your problems to your spouse without alarming them.
Make sure you explain that your relationship isn’t to blame for this
Many partners feel threatened by the idea of having their spouse going to therapy because it makes them feel like they don’t do enough for their partner to be content with life.
But if this isn’t the case, you should have a conversation with your spouse about the real reason behind you seeking therapy. It may have to do with a traumatic childhood, bullying, or even having difficulties dealing with certain every-day obstacles, rather than issues with the relationship.
Give couple’s therapy a try
Why not grow together?
If you’re comfortable with opening up about your issues in front of your spouse, you may benefit from learning more about you two as a couple. Plus, you’ll get extra support from the person you love once he or she understands what bothers you the most.
Wrapping up
Mental health is a touchy subject, especially when we have to inform the ones we love that we need professional help. Unfortunately, there are many people out there who delay seeing a therapist because they’re afraid of what their spouse or family will say about it. As a result, a lot of potential is lost when the root of the problem isn’t addressed.
Are you one of the people who feel like they need help in certain areas of their life but are afraid of the opinions of others? Contact us today to see how we can help you figure out a way to explain to your spouse that you need therapy.