Reality check: we’re all a bit “crazy”. Normal isn’t really a thing, even though society will have you thinking otherwise. There are different types of behavior: typical, average, and common. We each have our own “brand” of normal, one based on our own concept of self and life. Therefore, there is no “normal” that we all universally experience.
Given all of that, most anyone can benefit from therapy. Contrary to popular belief, therapists don’t give advice (that’s what your family and friends do). A good therapist helps you explore your issues, challenges, obstacles, and goals then helps you figure out how to overcome them or simply learn how to live within a certain situation.
Let me give you an example: You’re a parent, and you’re struggling. You have kids all doing kid things which push your buttons. You have your own stressors as a person: work life (or you’re a stay at home parent, which creates its own brand of challenges), running a household, being a supportive and loving partner, but are feeling your personal identity and inner life drifting away. Day to day activities feel mundane and boring. Your health is suffering. Motivation to do anything other than the absolutely required is gone. The family is eating out more and more because cooking and cleaning is just too much work. Sound familiar?
Here’s another example: You have an aging parent and are beginning to realize the rising needs and costs associated with caring for another person. You already have a full plate, but really feel responsible and want to care for your family member. There are also family dynamics and differing opinions to navigate. You’re exhausted and conflicted.
Or maybe you have a special needs child. But not the type of disability that others can see, rather, it’s a developmental one that only appears when your child is told ‘no’ or not given what they want. Maybe they don’t know how to manager their feels of anger and frustration. You’re yelling more and more, feeling increasingly defeated and alone. Your partner (if you’re still together) is also becoming more and more distant.
I could go on and on with examples, but I think you get the picture. All of these scenarios could be any one of us at one time or another. While each of these examples is unique and different, they all have a common thread in that they are all part of ordinary daily life. This is reality. There are periods of time that go great that we know how to navigate. But there are also times that we need help. There are times that we are so inside a problem that we can’t see life outside of the problem (think the “can’t see the forest for the trees” metaphor).
This is where counseling comes in. A qualified therapist can help you navigate the forest and the trees to identify the problem, figure out your goals, and create a plan of action. None of this means we’re not functioning or getting through the day. You probably are. But do you feel enriched by your life? Happy with your choices? Do you find enjoyment in your life? Are you inspired to achieve your dreams? Do you even know what your passions are?
If not, it’s time to find out. What are you waiting for?
~Larena