There are lots of physical health conditions that mean you take meds for life; lots of physical health conditions that can be managed with regular check-ups from a professional. And maybe we’re getting there with meds for mental health conditions, too. I know a lot of people who take antidepressants every morning, not just for a phase, but for all time. I know a lot of people who have to run every day to keep themselves together, and a lot of people who meditate.
There are a lot of mental health campaigns that stress the importance of talking to your friends about things, your colleagues, your family. Just talk! It’s time to talk! With our heads together, we can solve this! You don’t need to bother a doctor – don’t you have friends? And more than that, don’t you have any shame? Any pride?
It’s hard for people to help, when what you need is professional help. Mine is the Japanese knotweed of mental illness: a basically harmless vine thatwill choke the life out of everything in its path – parties, friendships, a family, a career, a life – breeding and growing deeper and deeper into the earth, and against which you can only hope for constant vigilance.
Yes therapy is worth the expense and worth the time ... time with a good therapist can be life changing. Groups can work but it may take a lot of time to find a Group that works for you.