4 Unexpected Benefits of Therapy

There are so many reasons that people seek out therapy. To heal issues in their past or present, to seek comfort, or to experience relief from mental illness. This just scratches the surface. Lately, the stigma around therapy has become somewhat lifted, helping individuals who would’ve normally decided against therapy, to maybe seek help. Therapy can be so incredibly healing to so many people. But there are other benefits you may find from therapy that you weren’t expecting.



You’ll become a better listener
When you spend significant amounts of time with someone who is a professional listener, you often pick up some of those characteristics. We all have a deep need and desire to be listened to, and so having that need met will make you more likely to listen in social situations, rather than filling the void with your own words and thoughts. As someone who is getting that attention that you need, you know how good it is to be listened to and have your thoughts and feelings validated, so it’s easier for you to listen to your loved ones. You want them to be listened to and understood, and you have the capabilities now to do so more efficiently and productively.

The people close to you will seek out therapy
There’s something about seeing your friends and loved ones working through their traumas and issues and seeing the positive results, that makes you want to seek out the same help and treatment. Often, when one person starts going to therapy, it influences those closest to them to do the same. Maybe not immediately, but down the road, if they come across an instance where they are considering therapy, they will reflect back on the good experience that you had in therapy, and will make the decision to schedule an appointment for themselves and seek treatment.



You’ll take better care of yourself
Going to therapy can be a form of self care, for some. Clearing up some of this mental space in therapy, gives you the time and resources to take care of yourself in other ways. Breaking through mental barriers is tough, and often can be somewhat draining. But you are left with a greater understanding for yourself, and you’re a little easier on yourself. As a result of this, you are able to better prioritize taking care of yourself. Eating healthier, making sure that your room is uncluttered, and keeping yourself clean are just the beginning of the list.



You’ll be a better parent
Whether you are currently a parent or not, going to therapy will give you the tools to be a better parent. Even if you never plan to be a parent, you as an individual still have a powerful role in raising the next generation. By going to therapy, you help shape the next generation to know how to process their own emotions in a healthier manner. Less self deprecation, more love and understanding. The stigmas that you grew up with around mental health and therapy will be lifted, so those who come after you, even if you don’t have children, will be able to grow up more rounded and with the resources to deal with their pains in a healthy manner. Social media is a great example of this. For Generation Z, as well as Generation Alpha, social media is an unavoidable part of their lives. Screens are a constant. It’s so different than when you were growing up. Learning how to use these as helpful tools, and to have a strong sense of self esteem are incredibly important, and can be achieved through social media. It just takes the examples of us to use those tools correctly.