In an insightful and engaging live session on TikTok, we had the pleasure of sitting down with two special guests, Izzy Adlina, a beauty and fashion content creator, and Jun, a Clinical Psychologist from Telehope Health, who also serves as a provider on Doctor Anywhere.
The discussion revolved around the world of therapy and mental health awareness, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Month.
The session kicked off by delving into the fundamentals of therapy and the various forms it can take. Jun emphasized that therapy isn't exclusive to those diagnosed with mental health issues; it's a resource for anyone seeking someone to talk to, whether they need relationship advice, career guidance, or even help with developmental challenges in children.
Izzy, who utilizes her platform to share her love for beauty and fashion, shared how art and creativity have been instrumental in helping her navigate her emotional journey.
The discussion with Izzy also touched upon the profound impact of the arts in navigating emotional journeys. Izzy highlighted how her creative pursuits had been instrumental in helping her cope with a range of emotions. Beyond self-expression, she also employed her platform to reassure her followers that they are not alone in their experiences and that there are others who are going through similar challenges.
For Izzy, who has contemplated therapy, this was the ideal opportunity to ask some pressing questions she had been holding onto. One of her concerns was, "What if I go to therapy and have nothing to talk about?" Jun reassured her that therapists are trained to create a comfortable space, often starting with a 10-minute conversation to understand the client's struggles and motivations for seeking therapy.
During the conversation, Izzy discovered that online therapy is a viable option, allowing individuals to engage in therapy sessions via video calls or even chat, making it more accessible and convenient.
Jun also addressed several common misconceptions about therapy, including its cost, the idea that it's exclusively for "crazy" individuals, and the belief that a counselor can't truly understand or help someone. Let's debunk these misconceptions:
Expensive: While therapy can be an investment, many options are available, including affordable or sliding scale fees, making it accessible to a broader range of people.
"Crazy" People: Therapy is not reserved for those with severe mental health issues. It's a resource for anyone seeking support, guidance, or personal growth.
Counselors Knowing You: Therapists are trained to listen, empathize, and help clients work through their unique challenges, often without needing in-depth prior knowledge of the individual's life.
Jun also highlighted how these misconceptions have been effectively shattered by professionals using their platforms, particularly after the challenges posed by the MCO (Movement Control Order).
Now, with the ever-expanding influence of social media, mental health stigma is steadily diminishing. Social media platforms provide a space for open discussions about mental health, fostering understanding and empathy. It breaks down barriers by showcasing real people sharing their experiences, making mental health relatable and approachable.
Jun provided valuable advice for those considering therapy for the first time, emphasizing the importance of open communication, honesty, and patience as they embark on their therapeutic journey.
And for those eager to explore therapy, there's a special opportunity:
Doctor Anywhere’s 5 Free Telecounseling Sessions
To access your 5 free telecounseling sessions under FWD Mind Strength, follow these simple steps…
-
Open your TikTok app, search for "mental health," and click on "learn more."
-
On the TikTok Wellness Hub, find the "Get Support" tab, then select FWD Mind Strength and click 'claim a promo code.'
-
Fill in your details on the landing page, and you'll receive the promo code via email.
We hope this informative session has been valuable, and we encourage you to keep the conversation alive on TikTok by using the hashtags #MentalHealthAwareness and #KekalSihat.
Let's continue to break down the barriers surrounding mental health stigma and promote a healthier, more compassionate world!
