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Mazvita Machinga
Post Correspondent
As a psychotherapist, I have often heard people question the importance of professional counselling.
I have heard people shunning or stigmatising seeking professional counselling from services like My Solution Wellbeing for several reasons.
There are those who say, “I do not need counselling, I can handle my own problems.”
Even if they are struggling and are overwhelmed, they may believe that seeking professional counselling is unnecessary and that they have the necessary skills and resources to cope effectively.
Others say, “I don’t want to burden others, or expose my own life, I can’t open up to strangers.” Others say, “I’m afraid of being judged.”
Some people might be concerned about the stigma associated with mental health and counselling.
They fear that seeking help could lead to negative judgments and people may say they are weak.
Most men think that they may be labelled as weak.
Some say, “Counselling is for rich people, or it’s for people who have no families.”
I could go on and on. It is important to take note that while these reasons may be voiced by individuals, seeking professional help from trained mental health practitioners such as psychotherapists, psychologist, professional counsellor, pastoral counsellors, etcetera, can be valuable in addressing various mental health concerns and promoting overall well- being.
Why should people take seeking professional counselling seriously?
The following are some of the benefits and why you should seek professional counselling.
Non-judgmental support: Some essential aspects of professional counseling are the provision of non-judgmental, unconditional, and unbiased support.
Professional counselors create a safe and accepting environment where individuals can freely express themselves without fear of being judged or stigmatised.
It’s a safe space to be vulnerable.
You process and reflect on your life in a free environment.
Mental and emotional well-being: Professional counselling provides individuals with a safe and confidential space to talk about and express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns.
Counselling promotes mental and emotional well-being by addressing challenging and overwhelming life issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship problems.
Problem solving: It is natural that sometimes we get stuck with life challenges and difficult situations and not know what to do.
Relationships and marriage conflicts, major life transitions, career choices, dealing with grief issues, etc, can disorient us.
Professional counsellors provide support, space for reflection, skills, and tools to use, strategies to navigate through challenges.
We help you make informed decisions and go through steps of problem solving.
Coping with trauma and crisis: Traumatic events such as accidents, loss, abuse, or natural disasters can have significant impact on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being.
Through counselling, one may be able to cope with trauma, manage their emotions and rebuild their lives.
Relationship and communication skills: Counselling can improve interpersonal relationships by fostering effective communication skills, empathy, and showing understanding skills.
It helps individuals develop healthier relationship patterns, resolve conflicts, and establish boundaries.
Couples counselling can also strengthen relationships by addressing issues like communication breakdown, trust, and intimacy.
Married people or those who want to marry can benefit from therapy.
Mental health disorders: Mental health professionals are trained to assess and treat mental health disorders such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders and substance abuse.
They use evidence-based techniques and therapies to support individuals in managing symptoms, improving functioning, and promoting recovery.
Do not stay at home, seek help because it is available.
Stress management: In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, stress has become a common concern.
Counselling provides individuals with techniques and coping strategies to manage stress effectively.
It helps individuals identify stressors, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build resilience.
Overall, professional counselling is important and needed because it offers a range of positive therapeutic outcomes and support to individuals facing various challenges.
It helps promote overall well-being and helps people lead more fulfilling lives.
Remember, in Zimbabwe only those registered or licensed by a professional body are lawfully allowed to offer professional counselling.
These could be psychotherapists, family therapists, psychologists, counsellors, and social workers.
Seek professional counselling from proficient skilled professionals near you.
Talk to your medical doctor or nurse at the health care centre near you. You should not suffer alone.
Mazvita Machinga is a qualified mental health professional located in Manicaland Province. For professional counseling: Call 0771 754519, or toll free no 08080482
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