Anxiety and depression can be debilitating and could impair one’s ability to live a normal and happy life. Although discussing mental illness is no longer taboo, many people are still hesitant to seek help for fear of being ostracised, or criticized for being seen as “weak.”
In fact, in Canada, one in five citizens struggle with mental illness or addiction. By the time Canadians reach 40 years old, one in two people has had issues with their psychological well-being. (1)
The situation is exacerbated by the onset of the COVID-19 global issue. Before the pandemic, only 5% of Canadians reported having high to extreme levels of anxiety. After, though, the figure rose to 20%. (2)
Fortunately, you don’t have to struggle alone. In the same way that you can visit a general physician for aches and pains in your physical body, you can also consult a professional for mental challenges.
As such, if you’re living on the west coast of British Columbia, you can enlist the help of a registered clinical counsellor in Vancouver if you’re struggling with anxiety and depression.
With that in mind, here are some ways that they can help you:
They’re trained to help you cope with your struggles
Counsellors are professionals who dedicate years of their lives to studying the science behind mental health problems. When they finish their studies, they’re equipped with the knowledge and skills to help people cope with their struggles.
Registered counsellors in the BC area should have completed their master’s degrees in an accredited institution, as well as the counselling course requirements. They must also go through 100 hours of clinical supervision and have a clear criminal record. (3)
Passing all these requirements assures clients that a counsellor is ready to provide support to those who need it. These practitioners also go through regular training to update their knowledge and skills.
They can provide personalised service
Mental health issues often stem from past trauma that leads to the development of unhealthy coping mechanisms in an attempt to protect the person from future pain. For instance, those struggling with anxiety might choose to keep others out, so they won’t have to deal with the heartache of separation for relationships that they think are always bound to fail.
A registered counsellor doesn’t just skim over the surface during your sessions, but they attempt to find the root of the issue. They’ll ask you to share stories about your childhood, and together, you can figure out where your anxiety and depression stemmed from.
One-on-one sessions are particularly beneficial for folks, especially those who don’t feel comfortable in a group setting. With a registered clinical counsellor, you can be sure that they what you share will be held in the strictest confidence, due to their commitment to ethical practice.
They can teach you healthy habits
Aside from understanding the root of the problem, a registered counsellor will also teach you healthy practices to override your negative coping mechanisms and develop sustainable habits that you can use in the long run.
Talking with someone and journaling are two examples of positive behaviour that can benefit people who are struggling with anxiety and depression. Focusing on having a healthy lifestyle can also do wonders for your mental health, such as the following:
- Eating clean – The brain-gut connection pertains to how the food you eat can influence your brain processes. After all, the body is composed of interconnected systems. This is why you should eat more fruits and vegetables, as well as probiotics, to boost your gut flora.
- Exercising regularly – Physical movement also releases happy hormones such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. Even when you don’t feel like getting up, a bit of movement can significantly boost your mood.
- Getting enough sleep – Although people with anxiety and depression tend to struggle with insomnia, eating clean and exercising regularly can help your body rejuvenate and get enough rest.
They’ll aid you in achieving your life goals
Counsellors can help you look at the bigger picture more clearly. They won’t explicitly tell you what to do but help you navigate your thoughts so you can take full responsibility for your life and actions.
You know you can rely on someone for consistent support
When you enlist the help of a counsellor, you can be sure that you will have a safe base to return to when things get hard. Because counsellors are committed to supporting you in your journey for your mental well-being, you won’t have to worry about going through challenges alone—even when you feel that the entire world is against you.
Final thoughts
Having a counsellor you can turn to for your mental health problems is invaluable, especially if you’re struggling with anxiety and depression. Check out the ways that these professionals can help you make sense and make peace with yourself.
References
- “Mental Illness and Addiction: Facts and Statistics”, Source: https://www.camh.ca/en/driving-change/the-crisis-is-real/mental-health-statistics
- “Anxiety and depression have spiked among Canadians: survey”, Source: https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/anxiety-and-depression-have-spiked-among-canadians-survey-1.4919741
- “Eligibility”, Source: https://bc-counsellors.org/member-info/eligibility/
