National Psychotherapy Day is observed every year on September 25. Mental illness was always disregarded and not considered a real health problem. Over the years, people have started acknowledging that for overall well-being, your physical- as well as mental health needs to be in good condition. Fortunately, there have been quite some advancements in the field of treating mental problems, one of them being psychotherapy. However, there is a need for increased awareness of this form of therapy and the benefits it can provide.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL PSYCHOTHERAPY DAY
People have been seeking therapy in a rather informal way for years, by way of taking counseling from friends and family. However, over the years, with many advancements in the medical field, some professionals have emerged who can help with mental health issues. Through the use of various forms of therapies, they can assist you in overcoming the challenges that prohibit you from living your best life possible.
Psychotherapy is one such form of therapy that helps people with a variety of mental illnesses and difficulties. It is believed that, during the 9th century, purposeful and theory-based psychotherapy was first developed by a Persian physician and psychological thinker, Rhazes. There are many benefits of psychotherapy and there is a need for it to be spoken about more to normalize it. Many training programs in clinical psychology at the Ph.D. level have adopted an empirical approach to psychotherapy. This has led to a greater emphasis on cognitive-behavioral interventions with one singular goal of improving the quality of a person’s mental health and allowing them to be happy.
To this effect, a group of professionals and students created Psychotherapy Day in 2012. The goal was to combat misconceptions and raise awareness of the vital work that is done by therapists. They also aimed to communicate the message that therapists typically end up helping one in four people who suffer from mental illness and emotional problems. Thus, Psychotherapy Day is important so that the community at large can benefit from its usage and lead a truly healthy life.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PSYCHOTHERAPY DAY
- Wear the color turquoise
On National Psychotherapy Day, you can spread awareness about it by wearing the color turquoise. Pick out a turquoise-colored top or a scarf and use social media to share your message. - Bust the myths on psychotherapy
With the ambiguity surrounding psychotherapy and its real benefits, there are a lot of myths that dissuade people from this form of treatment. It’s an ideal time to read up about psychotherapy and do your bit in busting common myths. - Recommend therapy to someone you know
Do you know a friend or family member who may need therapy to improve their mental well-being? You can recommend psychotherapy and educate them on the benefits and goals thereof.