Last Updated on August 10, 2024 by Asfa Rasheed
Mental health issues are a common concern in today’s world. Around 29% of the US population aged between 18 to 29 and 25% of adults within the age bracket of 26 to 49 years suffered from some sort of mental health issue in 2019. That’s not a minuscule figure, that’s massive, and it only keeps increasing.
It’s not easy to deal with mental health issues. It can be extremely tough and often very lonely. You may feel like you’re the only one going through it, but that’s not true. Mental health issues are common, and people out there understand exactly what you’re going through.
Technology has advanced nearly all fields of work and life, and mental health is no different. Online therapy or e-therapy is a convenient option for people who can’t or don’t want to visit a therapist in person. Let’s continue discussing online therapy to see if it’s the right fit for you.
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Mental Health Issue and Causes:
There is no one-size-fits-all to mental health issues. It differs from person to person. The most common mental health issues are depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addiction. The causes of mental health issues are also different for everyone. It could be due to genes, trauma, abuse, an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, etc. That being said, it’s essential to realize that your single episode of depression is not your fault, and you’re not weak for struggling.
Who to Turn to?
It’s a funny world. A topic as severe as depression and mental health still falls under the umbrella of ‘TABOO”! But, put behind this cruel world and thank people who excel in online masters counseling programs and are always open to helping you. These people are your therapists, and starting from today, they will be your best friends (virtually).
Talking to a stranger about your deepest, darkest secrets may not seem like an ideal thing to do but trust us, it’s worth it. A therapist will help you understand your mental health issue, work with you to develop coping mechanisms, and be a non-judgmental sounding board.
Since we exist in a world driven by IoT, it is not surprising that people are now provided with the opportunity to get professional help online. This type of therapy has helped many people who find it difficult to visit a therapist. Let’s crack it for you!
What is Online Therapy?
Therapy is therapy! For years, you may have relied on phone calls with your best friend, trying to explain the anguish you felt after a long day at work or a fight with your partner. But what if there was someone you could talk to who wouldn’t judge you, find solutions to your problems, and be there to support you without even physically meeting you? That’s what online therapy is.
It’s a type of therapy that’s provided over the internet. You can talk to your therapist via text, audio, or video chat. Online therapy is convenient because you can do it from the comfort of your own home or anywhere else that’s convenient.
Types of Online Therapy:
Nothing changed in the types of therapy, but what changes is the method. The three most common methods of online therapy are text-based therapy, audio-based therapy, and video-based therapy.
Text-Based Therapy is the most common form of online therapy. It’s also the most affordable because you don’t have to pay for the therapist’s time. You simply pay a flat fee, and then you can message your therapist anytime you want.
Audio-Based Therapy is similar to text-based treatment, but you talk to your therapist over the phone or through a VoIP service like Skype. It is a good option if you want to hear your therapist’s voice or if you’re not comfortable with video chat.
Video-Based Therapy is the most expensive but also the most personal. You can see your therapist, and they can see you. It works best for those who want the most intimate interaction with their therapist.
Rules and Ethics of Online Therapy:
Now that you’re comfortable with what online therapy is, it’s essential to understand the rules and ethics of online therapy. Like in-person therapy, both the therapist and the client must follow some rules and ethics.
Licensed and Professional – The first rule is that online therapists must be licensed in the state where they practice. It ensures that they are qualified to provide therapy and have met all of the requirements set forth by the state.
Confidentiality – The second rule is that online therapists must keep confidential information confidential. Anything you say to your therapist should not be shared with anyone else without your consent.
Laws and Regulations – The third rule is that online therapists should only provide therapeutic services to 18 years of age or older. It is because therapy can be a very personal and sensitive topic for some people.
Benefits of Online Therapy:
E-therapy has become a trusted and effective form of therapy for people of all ages. It is convenient, confidential, and easy to access. Here are some of the benefits:
Accessibility: You can’t ever be sure when your next episode of anxiety or depression will hit you. What if it’s on a Sunday at 11 PM? You can’t go to a therapist then, but you can message your therapist anytime, anywhere with online therapy. So, even if you feel your friends and family don’t relate to your condition, you will have a professional by your side, understanding, rooting, and cheering for you.
Anonymity: You might not want to be known as the person who goes to therapy. That’s okay! Online therapy is completely confidential, and no one will ever know that you’re receiving help unless you tell them. Your therapist will never tell anyone about you without your consent. So ease up and don’t hold off on getting the service you need and deserve.
Cost-Effective: Have you ever considered going to therapy but didn’t because it was too expensive? Well, online therapy is a fraction of the cost of in-person therapy. And, if you opt for text-based therapy, it’s even cheaper! There is no reason not to get the help you need because of cost.
Fits Your Schedule: Are you a busy person? Do you have a lot going on in your life? Well, online therapy fits into your schedule. You can message your therapist when you have a few minutes to spare. You don’t have to take time out of your day to go to therapy. It’s as straightforward as opening up your laptop and starting a conversation.
These are only a few of the many benefits that online therapy offers. If you’re considering exploring your options for treatment, be sure to look into online therapy. It might just be the perfect fit for you!
Ending Note:
Honestly, if you’re sorted on the fact that the world shouldn’t and doesn’t define you and your boundaries, that’s all that matters! If you’re looking for answers, you never thought you could find, or if you just want to feel lighter and brighter, we urge you to give therapy a try. Good luck!
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