We often praise and celebrate people for hitting the gym, but what about hitting the therapist's office? Self-care is an all-encompassing term that includes mental well-being, not just physical fitness. While not everyone needs a therapist, wouldn't it be amazing if society cheered for therapy the way we do for exercise? Props to Gen Z for being open about therapy—this shift is breaking down stigmas and healing collective trauma.
Therapy and Exercise: More Alike Than You Think
As a psychologist, I love drawing this parallel for my clients. Think of a therapist like a personal trainer for your mind. You might meet once a week, but the real growth happens outside the session—just like with physical training.
Immediate After-Effects
Both therapy and exercise can leave you feeling a range of emotions and physical sensations. You might experience mental fatigue or emotional 'muscle soreness.' I always recommend scheduling a 'buffer zone' if you're fitting therapy into a busy day.
Results Take Time
Results aren't always immediate in either case. Both require commitment and effort, and your outcomes depend on the work you put in.
Goal-Oriented
Whether you're in the gym or the therapist's office, you're working towards specific goals. This could be anything from building muscle and improving your cardio to better understanding your emotional triggers. Just like you would track your gym milestones, a good therapist helps you identify and celebrate emotional growth milestones.
The Right Fit Matters
Just as you'd want a personal trainer who aligns with your fitness goals, the right therapist can make a significant difference in your journey. The best results come when you find someone you're comfortable sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings with.
Expert Guidance
Personal trainers are experts in physical health; psychologists specialize in mental health. You pay for expertise in both scenarios, which is an investment in your well-being.
Time to Shift the Conversation
In short, self-care is multi-dimensional. Whether it's working out or going to therapy, the essence is the same: taking care of yourself. Let's break the stigma and give both the praise they deserve.
Warmly,
Dr. Holly