I believe everyone should go to therapy. 

Yes, even you. 

You might think,  “I don’t have a good enough reason to go to therapy.” 

Despite many people believing this, there is no amount of struggle required to go to therapy. You don’t need to have a mental illness, childhood trauma, or a big life-changing event. 

No matter your age, background, or gender, if you want to work on yourself, process your life, and understand why you act the way that you do, then therapy is for you. 

Last year, I decided I wanted to try therapy. Like many people, I was worried I didn’t have a good enough reason to go. I just knew something wasn’t right in my life and I couldn’t put my finger on it. 

So I took that next step and my parents set up an appointment with a therapist. 

Walking into the office that first day was terrifying, and I didn’t know what to expect. But since taking that big step, I have learned so much about myself and grown in many more ways than I could have imagined. 

I’ve learned how my experiences in the past have impacted me way more than I’ve realized. Little things such as being the youngest in my family, growing up in such a wealthy area, and the things people have said to me have impacted the way I think, speak, and act. 

I’ve learned to accept that everyone has bad days and I should treat myself kindly on such days. It’s important that I take it slow and prioritize my own needs. 

I’ve learned how to reframe and control my own thoughts, which has helped me lessen my anxiety. We are stuck in our minds 24/7, so it’s important to make it a safe, positive space. 

I’ve also learned good habits specific to my own needs that have helped me become healthier both physically and mentally, such as journaling, going on walks, and songwriting. 

There is a lot of stigma surrounding going to therapy. It can be seen as a sign of weakness, and some people are ashamed to talk about it. However, it is an extremely brave thing and something to be proud of. Talking about going to therapy should be normalized and respected. 

Sometimes therapy doesn’t work right away for everyone. It can take trying many different therapists to see which one is the best for you. It can be scary and uncomfortable and sometimes progress doesn’t happen right away. I am still working through a lot in therapy. 

But it’s been such a fulfilling experience, one that I’m so grateful for. 

If you were looking for a sign to go to therapy, this is it. Take that next step and seek help.