For many years, therapy has been looked at with stigma and shame. The idea of seeing a therapist was often seen as a sign of weakness or even a sign of mental illnesses. Despite mental health being just as important as physical health, it was not perceived in this manner  and was not given any priority.  

The roots of the stigma

However, since the stigma still remains, it is important to understand what causes it in order to prevent it. The stigma surrounding therapy has its roots in cultural and historical factors, as mental illness or mental health issues were once seen as character flaws or failures. 

Furthermore, the portrayal of mental health in a negative light by showing those with mental health issues to be dangerous or unstable also leads to a negative view of mental health.  

These impressions in turn cause people to hesitate in asking for help due to fear of judgement or social repercussions. 

Another contributing factor is the idea of ‘pulling oneself together,’ since many cultures emphasise self reliance and the ability to manage emotions and struggles on one’s own. 

Asking for help in these cultures is seen as a weakness, with this belief being reinforced by generations of people who were taught to keep personal issues private and to avoid discussing mental health problems openly.

Changing attitudes

However, through the years, attitudes toward therapy and mental health have begun to change due to increased awareness and advocacy efforts. From companies allowing employees to take mental health breaks to universities providing free counselling, mental health is being taken more seriously and given more priority. 

Additionally, mental health organisations, celebrities, and everyday people are speaking out about their personal experiences with therapy, helping to normalise the process of seeking professional help. 

When high-profile figures discuss their journeys with therapy, it helps create a sense of solidarity and encourages others to follow suit, demonstrating that therapy is not a sign of weakness, but rather a courageous step toward self-improvement.

The rise of mental health awareness campaigns, particularly those aimed at younger generations, has helped to create an environment where talking about therapy is no longer seen as taboo. 

Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic has contributed to the shift in how therapy is perceived. The pandemic had a significant impact on mental health, causing stress, anxiety, and depression to rise dramatically. 

As people became more aware of the toll that isolation, uncertainty, and grief were taking on their mental health, the need for therapy became more apparent. Many turned to online therapy and virtual counselling sessions, further normalising the idea of seeking help.

For some, it also eliminated the fear of being seen entering a therapist’s office, offering more privacy and making it easier to access support.

Future of therapy

While progress has been made, there is still work to be done to completely break the stigma around therapy. 

In some areas, there are still misconceptions and reluctance to seek professional help. There is also a need for continued investment in mental health services, ensuring that therapy remains accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical location.

The journey toward a stigma-free society requires continued effort, but the changing landscape of therapy is promising, offering hope to those who seek help and support.

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