How and when did you take the plunge?

[babylover111]

I've been thinking about seeing a psychologist for quite sometime just to deal with issues of my self esteem and self worth because it feels like I've been battling with them long enough by myself. But I'm haunted by my dignity, I know this is so stupid in this day and age but I feel like I'm giving in if I have to seek help.

So anyone my question is how did you take the plunge by seeing one and admitting to yourself and those close to you that you need the help?

[SilverStarfish]

I have nothing but respect for people who seek out help for problems, physical and emotional.

My sister had some hard times last year and I finally convinced her to come and see my doctor, who was able to refer my sister to a lovely psychologist under the new medicare scheme (12 free visits a year).

It was such a help to my sister that she's continued to see the psychologist even after the covered visits. The progress has been slow, but steady. And the difference it's made to my sister is wonderful.

You don't need to tell anyone about going if you don't feel comfortable about it.

Go talk to your GP about a referal. It won't cost a thing and it might be what you need to help get your head sorted :)

[studyingECS]

i recently went and saw one i am younger so it my be different... but ijust had to let it out that i wantedto see someone to help me..ofcourse i got the natural reaction of shock from my parents but they wanted to help me so they were very supportive

it is a great feeling to tell someone your feelings and no they are listening.

there is nothing wrong with asking for help it took me a while but it was the right thing todo i think u should take the pludge..

[shed]

I went along and talked to a psychotherapist not long after I met DP and got a job I really liked.

I just decided that I didn't want to stuff everything up now that I had been so blessed. I was sick of some stuff and just wanted to talk to someone about it because it kept getting in my way.

I just wanted to be happy that's all. I didn't tell anyone, I just went along. I didn't tell DP and I still haven't. Its not a matter of 'hiding' it, it was just that it was FOR me and there was no need to tell anyone else about it.

It was wonderful and I found it really beneficial and am so glad I did it.

I also went along for a little refresher visit when I was pregnant which I found very useful.

If I ever need it again I will have no hesitation.

[ButterflyMama]

For me I just got sick of feeling bad and experiencing pain so I went to my GP and asked for a referral. She gave me one, and I have been seeing him for the past 5 years - on and off. It was the best thing I ever did. Without him I wouldn't be where I am now - so far from where I began. Some things you just can't deal with on your own, and you shouldn't have to. :thumbsup:

[Eeyore]

I was suffering terribly with insomnia (4hours sleep per night) and deep down I knew that I was depressed. I got sick of pretending to be happy all of the time. It was such an effort to compensate for how I was really feeling. And the silly thing is that I was covering up so that others wouldnt feel bad. Crazy! Anyway I went to my GP for a referral and I went onto antidepressants for about 18months. It was the best thing I have ever done. After that I travelled o/s by myself and I was much more outgoing and I actually enjoyed my life again. I am very open about what I went through, because without it I wouldnt be here today. As for the reactions from family and friends, you dont have to tell anyone about seeing a psychologist or counseller until you are ready. In fact, no one has to know at all... ever!

I still go to see my psychologist every now and then when I can see the "all-is-not-well" signs appearing again. She is an absolute God-send.

[jamb]

I was similar to Shed. I went when my future DH and i hooked up.

I'd had a terrible failed marriage and numerous men had cheated on me after that.

I basically hated men. I knew DH was a great guy yet i could also see myself sabotaging it before it even began, with issues I needed to work on.

My mum is a psychotherapist (gestalt) so I have been around the "talk" for many years. I guess i just didnt want to miss out on someone good because of what had happened in the past.

It was scary to drive to and to walk in but the man i saw was fantastic, I only had a few sessions but it helped enormously. I still read a bit on self help to guide my thoughts and if i was in an area that had a wide array of professionals to see i would go again (i lived in syd at the time).

Good luck

[babylover111]

Thank you for all your replies! I've now gained the confidence to go and see someone, ive found someone who seems to fit my description and is local which is also good. Another thing you've made me realise is that I don't need to tell anyone, I have no idea why I thought it was a must that everyone has to know!

Thank you again girls :hugs: