Feeling like you're getting worse despite going to therapy and receiving help from your therapist can be distressing and confusing. It's essential to recognize that therapy is a process, and it's not uncommon to experience ups and downs during the therapeutic journey. There are several possible reasons why you might feel this way:
Opening Old Wounds: In therapy, you may be exploring past experiences and emotions that have been suppressed or ignored. This process can bring up intense feelings, making you temporarily feel worse before experiencing healing.
Increased Awareness: As therapy progresses, you may become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This heightened awareness can initially feel overwhelming or lead to feelings of distress.
Unearthing Deep-Seated Issues: Therapy might uncover underlying and complex issues that you weren't fully aware of before. Addressing these issues can be challenging and may lead to increased emotional turmoil.
Resistance to Change: Sometimes, people subconsciously resist change, even if they consciously want it. This internal conflict can cause emotional discomfort.
Lack of Immediate Improvement: Therapy is a gradual process, and meaningful change takes time. You might expect to feel better quickly, but progress often happens in small steps.
Dependence on Therapist: Feeling worse could also arise from becoming emotionally dependent on your therapist. This can happen if the therapeutic relationship is too intense or if you perceive your therapist as the sole source of support.
Temporary Setbacks: Life is filled with ups and downs, and setbacks can happen even during therapy. External stressors or life events may temporarily affect your well-being.
If you're feeling worse in therapy, it's crucial to communicate your feelings with your therapist openly. They can help you explore why you might be feeling this way and adjust the therapeutic approach if needed. It's also important to remember that therapy can be challenging, but it is designed to support your growth and healing in the long run.
Here are some suggestions to cope with feeling worse in therapy:
Express Your Feelings: Share your concerns and emotions honestly with your therapist. A strong therapeutic relationship is built on trust and open communication.
Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that nurture your well-being, such as spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in relaxation techniques.
Be Patient: Give yourself time and space to process what comes up in therapy. Healing and personal growth take time.
Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that progress in therapy is not always linear, and setbacks are a natural part of the process.
Explore Therapy Approaches: If you feel like the current therapeutic approach isn't working for you, discuss alternative techniques or modalities with your therapist.
Consider Support Groups: Joining a support group can offer additional sources of understanding and encouragement.
If you're feeling overwhelmed or distressed, don't hesitate to reach out to your therapist between sessions or seek additional support from mental health professionals. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and that you deserve support and healing on your journey.