My Journey to Understanding: Why Everyone Deserves Therapy

The Christmas break often brings with it a time for reflection, and for me, last December marked a significant decision: I was going to start therapy. It wasn't a snap decision, but rather a quiet resolution born from a desire for deeper self-understanding and a proactive approach to my mental well-being. While I'm not in crisis now, I've certainly been in dark places before – a period in late 2018 stands out, leading to three months off work and a complete change of scenery to Wakefield. That experience, though challenging, taught me the importance of taking care of my mind.

An accurate representation of my mind at times

This time, the circumstances were different. I felt I had the resources to commit to regular sessions, and I was eager to explore some persistent patterns, particularly those linked to a suspected ADHD diagnosis. But beyond that, I simply wanted to understand myself better – my reactions, my motivations, my inner landscape.

My sessions with Jacqui have been nothing short of transformative. It’s not an exaggeration to say that therapy has been one of the most beneficial investments I’ve made in myself. I’ve learned to peel back layers, to connect dots I didn’t even realise were there, and to frame my experiences within the context of how my brain works. The insights I’ve gained, especially concerning my likely ADHD, have provided a new lens through which to view my past and navigate my present. It’s like discovering the operating manual for a complex machine you’ve been driving your whole life; suddenly, everything makes a bit more sense.

The timing, it turns out, was also incredibly fortuitous. Life, as it often does, threw some curveballs my way more recently, including a particularly challenging period and a bit of a breakdown on a train about six weeks ago. The tools, self-awareness, and coping strategies I've been developing in therapy didn't just prevent a deeper spiral; they equipped me to navigate that rough patch with a resilience I wouldn't have had otherwise. It was still incredibly difficult, but I felt prepared, supported, and ultimately, capable of moving through it.

Therapy isn't about being "broken" or about finding quick fixes. For me, it’s been about growth, about building a stronger foundation within myself. It’s about learning to sit with discomfort, to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and to celebrate the unique way I experience the world. It’s about fostering a kinder, more compassionate relationship with myself.

My experience has solidified a belief I hold strongly: therapy should not be a luxury, but a fundamental right. Just as we have access to physical healthcare, our mental well-being deserves the same level of attention and accessibility. Imagine a world where everyone, regardless of their financial situation or background, could access a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, understand their emotions, and develop strategies for a more fulfilling life.

We all carry burdens, face challenges, and grapple with the complexities of being human. Therapy offers a compass, a guide, and sometimes, just a quiet space to breathe and process. It’s a powerful tool for personal development, and it’s something I truly believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience. Let's work towards a future where mental health support is as accessible and normalised as any other form of care.