A person struggles with therapy fears, feeling pressure to meet expectations while dealing with personal challenges.
New York: A person reached out for help, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They’ve been a first responder for years and suspect they might have PTSD. On top of that, they’re dealing with marital issues and the recent loss of loved ones. It’s a lot to carry.
They feel like they can’t talk to their spouse or friends because everyone sees them as the strong one. But inside, they’re struggling with self-esteem and the fear of being seen as “less than.” This fear extends to therapy, where they worry about disappointing their therapist.
But here’s the thing: it’s totally normal to feel this way. A good therapist is there to support you, no matter how open you feel. They won’t have a checklist of expectations. It’s okay to share your fears right from the start. Doing so can help ease that pressure and allow your therapist to guide you better.
Remember, what you bring to the session is enough. You’re making the right choice by seeking help. It’s important to show yourself the same kindness you give to others.
In another situation, someone shared their frustration about a holiday wish list from their husband’s adult child. This child, who’s well-off, sent a list of expensive gifts, which felt more like a demand than a suggestion. The person is in their 70s and trying to save for retirement, so this request felt overwhelming.
They felt like they were being taken for granted, especially since this grandchild never acknowledges gifts or birthdays. It’s understandable to feel stressed and resentful in this situation. But it’s important to remember that gifts should come from the heart, not feel like obligations.
For next year, they could consider changing their gifting approach. Maybe they could announce a new tradition that fits their budget better. This way, they can still celebrate the holidays without the stress of expensive demands.
