I used to think therapy was just for people with 'big' problems

For years, I figured my low-level anxiety and constant overthinking were just normal, like a background hum I had to live with. I mean, I wasn't in crisis, so why bother? But after my car broke down on the highway in the rain last month and I had a full-blown panic attack waiting for the tow truck, I knew I couldn't just shrug it off anymore. I found a therapist through my work's program and started going every other week. It's only been about two months, but just talking through how I handle stress has been huge. I'm learning to spot when my thoughts are spiraling and actually do something about it. Has anyone else started therapy for what felt like 'small' stuff and been surprised by how much it helps?

4 comments

4 Comments

mason_lopez11d ago

Your story really hits home. I put off therapy for ages because I thought my problems weren't serious enough, just everyday stress. Finally going taught me that those small, constant worries were actually draining my energy. Learning to notice the spiral before it gets bad has been a game changer for me too.

mia70011d ago

Yeah @mason_lopez, noticing that spiral early is key, and for me, writing down the worries helps stop them from taking over.

luna_wright11d ago

Ever try screaming into a pillow?

karen3613d ago

Honestly though, is therapy always the answer for everyday stress? Sometimes it feels like we're making a big deal out of normal life stuff. Can't people just talk to a friend or go for a run instead of paying someone to listen? The whole "spiral" thing gets talked about a lot, but maybe it's just having a bad day.

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