Stop The Stigma

Last night I was inspired by the “How I Built This” podcast featuring Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler, co-founders of SoulCycle. What caught my attention most was how unapologetic and open they were about seeing therapists and life coaches early on in their careers, and how SoulCycle would not have turned into the successful brand it is now without those key influences.

This got me thinking — why is there such a stigma around going to therapy? As a woman, I feel like there are so many parts of life we are taught to keep private, important parts of life we associate with guilt and shame, but why? It’s something we’re conditioned into thinking at such a young age, but I think it’s time we stop the stigma and talk openly about these subjects. So today, let’s talk about therapy.

I started seeing a therapist when I was going through a breakup. At first, I felt awkward admitting I was going to see someone about parts of my life I felt I had no control over, but then I realized just how many people see therapists. And suddenly, I felt this huge sense of relief — like I wasn’t alone, and I want everyone to feel that. I want everyone to know that it’s okay to not be okay.

Unbeknownst to me, going therapy had more benefits than I could imagine. Once I got my mental health in check and worked diligently on my self-esteem, I realized how capable I was in pursuing my dreams. It was then that my business as a solopreneur took off, and HonestlyKate became something I was truly proud of.

Like the founders of SoulCycle openly admitted, I was able to find my deepest strengths and most authentic self through therapy. And that person was there all along, I just needed somebody to guide me through the struggles I was having, and still have today.

It’s funny to think that if I didn’t have the courage (because let me just say, it takes guts to actually go to therapy, that initial call to make an appointment was the hardest part) HonestlyKate wouldn’t be what it is today, and I wouldn’t be sharing this with you.

So my point is this: we need to stop thinking of therapy as something we should be ashamed of. It’s so incredibly important to talk about your problems with someone and address any mental health obstacles that come your way. And I really wish that it didn’t come with a price-tag, but remember, investing in yourself has the greatest reward.

For me, therapy is vital for my mental health and happiness. If you’re looking for a therapist I highly suggest taking a look at Psychology Today, where you can filter therapists by those who work in your neighborhood and take your health insurance. Because your mental health should be taken seriously, and you should feel no shame in admitting that you’re taking steps towards becoming a better you.  

X kt