10 Reasons Why Individuals With Mental Health Issues May Resist Treatment

The Benefits of Therapy & Counseling

Therapy provides a wide range of tools to help people live happy and healthy lives. Sessions can occur one-on-one with a therapist, with a couple or family, or in a group of people going through a similar situation.

By attending therapy, you can:

• Talk to someone who you don’t have a relationship with
• Gain a new perspective
• Vent to someone who is happy to listen
• Discover new things about yourself
• Develop new coping strategies and mindfulness techniques

And because the benefits of therapy are becoming more clear, it’s easier than ever to access it. Therapists are now available online, on the telephone, and even through text or messaging services.

So if all of these people know how great therapy can be, why do some still choose not to go?

Why People Refuse to Go to Therapy

Even though the numbers of people who engage in therapy are climbing, some people who could benefit from it deliberately don’t seek it out. Only about 40% of people with mental health issues such as anxiety or depression decide to participate in counseling.

Here are 10 reasons that people may not seek out therapy.

1. “Craziness” & Counseling

There’s a stigma on counseling that only people who are “crazy” need it. People who have insecurities about coming off this way may resist going because of it. But actually, anyone who is interested in maintaining good mental health is encouraged to start.

2. They Think They Can Handle It

A lot of people think that strength means handling things on their own; when, in fact, true strength lies in asking for help. A therapist is not meant to take problems away for you, but to help give you the tools to handle it more effectively when you’re by yourself.

3. Lack of Time

Think you’re too “busy” for therapy? Lately, you can be in and out of a therapy session in less than a half hour. New methods have been invented to cater to people who may not have time to drive to a specific location amidst their busy daily routine.

4. Cost of Therapy

Therapy can be a little pricey, but there are lots of options if you don’t think you can afford it. Many insurances now cover the cost of mental health treatment; just call your provider to see what’s offered. New apps and providers are also offering counseling sessions at discounted rates or with payment plans.

5. Confidentiality Questions

It’s natural to feel nervous about telling a stranger your deepest secrets. Many think that what they tell their therapists may end up leaking; but in reality, licensed counselors and therapists are committed to a confidentiality agreement.

6. Denial, Denial, Denial

Have you ever heard someone say “I don’t need therapy” or “I don’t have any problems?” That’s one of the main things people tell themselves when they avoid counseling. However, nobody needs therapy or is required to have “problems” to go. Once someone accepts that therapy could benefit them, they will be on the right track to improving their mental health.

7. Limited Availability

Unfortunately, not all areas in the country are rich with reputable mental health facilities or professionals. Some lower-income areas may not have access to these services, and more rural towns may not have a facility for counseling in their area. However, because of the pandemic and many medical offices closing down, more licensed therapists are available.

8. Fear of Failure

We must consider that some people are afraid to go to therapy because they think it won’t work or that it won’t be able to help them. If they are already dealing with overwhelming feelings due to mental health issues, the thought of “failing” at something as simple as therapy can be daunting. But remember: there is no wrong way to do therapy.

9. Condition Barriers

Along those same lines, someone’s condition might stop them from having the desire to go to therapy. Depending on their mental disorder, they could be avoiding going to therapy for a variety of reasons. It is important to understand the struggle while encouraging them that counseling will help them navigate their thoughts and feelings.

10. Trust Issues

Some people just don’t feel comfortable trusting others. This may be because of a past experience, or they might just have a barrier up. If someone is apprehensive about attending therapy because they don’t know if they can trust someone new with their problems, they should know that the right counselor will be trustworthy and reliable.

How Therapy Could Help You

Whether you have an official mental health diagnosis or not, therapy could drastically help you clear your mind and boost your confidence. This simple form of treatment will help you learn more about yourself and your surroundings, setting you up for long-term success.