Therapy is a great outlet for expressing your thoughts. Graphic courtesy of Health and Sports Co-Editor Vyolet Burrus.

  Despite the media portraying therapy as a means of curing the mentally ill, therapy can be a great outlet for everybody, including students at San Luis Obispo High School. 

  Therapy itself is a tool used to help people connect to their emotions and understand their actions in order to relieve stress and create a better headspace. While many people with serious mental illnesses use therapy as a form of treatment, those without mental illnesses can benefit from therapy too. 

  “I think people can benefit from therapy [because you’re] able to talk to another person who isn’t your parent or guardian, and you [can talk to them about anything],” said freshman Chris Clanin.

  Those who go to therapy, regardless of their initial mental status, are reported to have better emotional awareness, mindfulness, and an overall better wellbeing. By expressing your thoughts and getting all your problems out on the table, you are able to build a better understanding of your thought processes and gain a higher self esteem. 

  “I use [therapy] to cope with my depression and anxiety; and it helps me figure out what to do when I’m in a stressed or depressed mood and I can’t [function],” said Clanin.

  For those with more serious problems and deep trauma, therapy can act as a coping method and allow patients to process distressing events. Therapists are trained to listen and help their patients process their problems; helping them establish a healthier well being. 

  Despite therapy being an overall positive boost for one’s sense of self and well-being, therapy can be a difficult process, especially when you have to open up to a stranger.

  “Not everybody [can benefit from therapy]; those who don’t want [to do it] shouldn’t do it. For some people, it can just make things worse,” said Clanin. 

  While therapy can be uncomfortable, and at times painful when discussing traumatic events; it benefits your mental health in the long run.

  Whether it’s managing anxiety, developing empathy, or harnessing your emotions, therapy benefits all. Everyone has problems, and everyone experiences stress, so why not go to therapy Tigers?

Source: magazine.circledna.com