Myths associated with counseling - CAPS

Myth #1: People who go for counseling are weak

• Students frequently need to be independent and see help-seeking as an indication of weakness. However, there is nothing weak about a person who tries to ask for help.
• People who enter counselling are actually courageous since they are taking the first step in solving their difficulties. Recognizing your own problems and putting effort to overcome them is in itself a huge milestone.

Myth #2. Counseling is only for “crazy” people

• A lot of stigma is still associated with people who go for therapy. We need to understand that asking for help does not make anyone less intelligent or “crazy”.
• These preconceived notions about counseling can cause a hindrance in one's personal growth and can also demotivate others who need help.

Myth #3: Counseling is only for major issues or people suffering from serious mental health conditions.
 

• While counseling does help individuals suffering from serious mental health conditions and individuals going through significant life issues and traumas, however, these aren't the main circumstances where counselling can work.
• There are a wide variety of issues that any student can face at any time during their degree where counseling might be of help. For instance, counseling may help students who want to understand themselves and those around them in a better way.
• It may also help students who are having a tough time adjusting to new surroundings or those who are suffering academically and need guidance on how to manage their time and work more efficiently.

How can Parents Help?

• The role of parents in normalising therapy is very crucial. There will be many students who will be reluctant to ask for help due to these negative stereotypes associated with counseling.
• However as mentioned above, such beliefs have no substance and it’s high time that we set them aside and view counseling under a positive light.  
• You can help reduce the stigma associated with counseling by having an open conversation with your child and letting them know that counseling services at CAPS are routinely involved by numerous students for different worries and that using counseling services reflects great utilization of one's assets.
• Similarly as it is normal to visit a doctor when one has a clinical issue, there ought to be no disgrace in meeting with a counselor to examine a private matter or concern.
• Moreover, it is essential not only to remove these myths with your children but also with the overall parent community in order to change society’s attitudes towards mental health and counseling.