11/10/2023
I was truly taken aback when a 12-year-old client came to me for psychological counseling and whispered, "Talking to you really helps, but I don't want my friends to know about it." Those words hit me right in the heart, as she went on to explain her deep-seated fear of being seen as weak or "different" by her peers. This young soul, who was raised with strong beliefs in gender equality and a keen awareness of discrimination based on factors like religion and economic status, was wrestling with a profound internal conflict.
The question that gnawed at me was: Why, despite her progressive ideals, did she still regard psychological counseling as a forbidden secret? It became evident that societal expectations had a tight grip on her perception. This realization begged for change in the way we guide our children through their emotions. We must let go of the age-old advice that instructs children not to cry, a notion that mistakenly portrays tears as a symbol of weakness. However, research shows that shedding emotional tears is not just about self-soothing; it's a release that triggers the flow of oxytocin and endorphins, bringing a rush of well-being and offering relief from both physical and emotional pain (as documented by Medical News Today).
In light of these insights, it becomes paramount to create an environment where children are not only permitted but encouraged to seek counseling when they need it. This shift needs to be made without any fear that their choice reflects any weakness. Instead, seeking help should be celebrated as a courageous and empowering step towards nurturing their emotional well-being.