For the first time in months, I’m feeling like myself again. I’m laughing more, I’m not as consumed with my to-do list, and I’m doing more things for myself. The glass that I always saw as half empty is starting to look a little more full.
Small changes have been taking place in my life, all because I started seeing someone. And no, I’m not talking about my husband! Last November, I made the decision to start seeing a therapist.
Months ago, I was feeling overly stressed and extremely anxious. A combination of a new position at work, and the daily struggle of marriage and having three kids was bubbling over. I started losing my patience faster than ever. I was lashing out at those people closest to me {mostly my husband}. I just wasn’t feeling good about anything. I hated the way I was behaving, yet I felt I couldn’t control it. And that tightness in my chest, yeah something was really wrong.
At first, I didn’t think therapy would be the right fit for me since I don’t have any serious issues to work through. I’m just the average stressed-out mom that we all know. But dumping all my feelings on my husband was not helping the problem.
Now after a few months of therapy, I realize how beneficial it has been for me to take an hour out of my week to talk to someone who is completely unbiased. For the first time in my life, I actually feel heard. I get someone’s undivided attention, and I get the chance to share my feelings. I am also provided with constructive feedback. Sometimes my feelings and thoughts are validated, and other times I’m offered suggestions to what I can do to change my behavior. It’s all about me!
I’m also learning new things about myself. Through therapy, it’s been brought to my attention that I tend to catastrophize things. How did I not realize this on my own! I’m always thinking 10 steps ahead and trying to troubleshoot different situations {which isn’t always a bad thing}. But I’ve been so caught up in the what-ifs. I’m slowly learning to ask myself, “What’s the worst-case scenario?” The majority of the time, the answer isn’t really that bad, and I can focus my attention on more important things.
Being honest with yourself is hard. I’ve realized that there are a lot of things that I don’t really like about myself. But guess what? I can change them. I can think before I react to a situation. I can acknowledge how I communicate with others. I can shift the focus back to me, rather than what other people say and do.
Therapy might not be for everyone, but it has greatly impacted my outlook on life and the relationships I have….mostly the one I have with myself. I might not be completely stress-free, but at least I am feeling happy again.
Can you relate, but not sure where to get started?
Darien Wellness is a mental health group located in downtown Darien, CT. They are open 7 days a week to meet the busy schedules of their clients and have early morning and late-night hours available as well. Interested in working with one of their coaching or counseling staff? Call 203.883.0464 and a friendly client care specialist will be able to help you find the best fit for you and/or your family.
Visit their website at DarienWellness.com and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
I have recently started seeing a therapist myself for many of the same reasons. It’s such a good way to take care of ourselves!