THE " T " WORD
By Nisha Syal
“Is it good, is it bad, will I be looked at differently?” That intense, almost terrifying “T” word that most people juggle the idea of is between shame or relief – therapy. In my experience, it’s not as scary as it seems. Going to therapy has been a journey in itself – before making the decision to go and actually going. Talking about the most crucial things in my life that have showered me in anxiety was actually quite refreshing. I don’t think about problems in my life in the same way that I used to – which would be the end of my world as I know it. I’m able to tackle my problems headstrong (of course, still a tad weary) now because I am capable. Therapy has been extremely beneficial in my life, in order to handle my crippling anxieties. Basing my choice of therapist on my ethnicity is an entirely different issue. I guess I based my decision on the individual who seemed they could relate most to me: an LGBTQ, Hispanic/ Indian friendly person seemed most fitting for me. With some research, I realized there were mostly Caucasian therapists, so I did become nervous about even going. Was she going to be able to truly relate to me and offer me personable advice that I could take for my future or, on the other hand, would she try her best but scrutinize me as I lie on her long, cozy couch? Like I said, it’s been a battle between my wants and my needs. However, I overcame my want for a brown female friend who understands my sexual orientation and settled with a nice lady who actually seemed to care (a lot). She called me and touched base during the week and started to understand me. Therapy has relieved me of some stress and has helped me overcome my innermost anxieties.
