There has been a great deal of stigma over the years related to therapy. Some feel it is embarrassing to seek treatment. It can feel difficult or maybe even risky. This can lead to many avoiding treatment or delaying getting the help they need. Most often, counseling is regarded as a last resort after attempts to deal with things on your own, or with the help of loved ones, have failed.

This misconception about counseling persists despite studies supporting the effectiveness and benefits of counseling. Over the years, the popularity of counseling has grown rapidly, yet barriers still exist, preventing people in need from seeking professional help. The consequences of avoiding treatment can be severe. There can be many barriers to seeking therapy, here we will examine a few.

Factors that Lead to Avoiding Help

1. Social stigma, shame, or fear—One of the most significant barriers to treatment is the perception that counseling is something to be ashamed of. In the past, society had a tendency to judge and label individuals who sought help for their psychological or emotional health concerns. Today, the proven benefits of counseling have made it a popular and widely accepted approach to improving mental wellness and treating intrusive symptoms. While this has improved, there is still a lot of work to be done.
2. Denial—Refusal to accept that a problem or difficulty exists may affect an individual’s decision to seek treatment. People experiencing denial may also feel that they can figure things out on their own. The real truth is that everyone deserves help, no one can do it all on their own. Mental health symptoms are powerful, you deserve the help of a trained professional. 
3. Fear of re-experiencing trauma—The very thought of rehashing problems and reliving painful past experiences can make some avoid seeking counseling. Most people are not comfortable discussing their personal experiences with a stranger. However, in therapy, that “stranger” is a professional with training and experience in helping people improve, change, and feel better. A therapist can help you to heal and grow in ways you never thought possible.4
4. Expenses—The anticipated cost of counseling can influence a person’s decision to seek treatment. Sure, counseling may require some funds (depending on your insurance), but it can pay off in the long run. Investing in your mental health is often worth it. 
5. Loved ones (family and friends) opinions— The views and opinions of those closest to us can strongly influence our choices. If those close to you, no matter how well-meaning they are, do not consider your concerns to be serious or believe in therapy, they may not support you seeking counseling. Studies have shown that people deciding to get professional help talk to members of their social network, including family and friends. The value of their opinions and attitudes cannot be discounted, however, they do not have to be the deciding factor in whether you seek treatment.

Making the Right Decision for Your Mental Health and Wellness

Apart from these five barriers, there are other roadblocks out there that may prevent you from seeking professional help. For many, reluctance to get the help they need is based on a lack of understanding, information, or awareness of whether counseling can help. If you feel that counseling can help, don’t let these roadblocks derail you. Call Carolina Counseling Services — Cameron, NC.

CCS contracts with therapists who can help. Call now to schedule an appointment. Starting therapy may be one of the best decisions you ever make.