“Mom, I think I need to go see a therapist.”
“What?”
“Yes, I think I should consult a therapist.”
“Ohhhh.. What’s wrong with you? Are you hurt?”
“No, mom! Not the physiotherapist. A psychologist, counsellor, therapist.”
“Oh… For whom?”
“Not to recommend to anyone, I personally want to see a therapist.”
“What? Are you serious? But aren’t you one yourself?”
“No mom.. I’m just a psychology student, I’ll be a psychologist next year after completing my MA. But that has nothing to do with this. Even therapists see other therapists.”
“Umm.. okay”
“Yeah. So I’ll start looking for therapists now.”
“But I don’t get it. Why do you want to see a therapist suddenly? Is everything okay?” She asks in a very concerned voice.
“Everything is… fine mom. Its just…. I have some issues that I need help overcoming.”
“Like what?”
“There are a lot of issues mom. Like I get angry easily….”
“Oh.. that’s easy. I know what you should do for that.”
“You do? What??”
“Meditate! Its the best medicine you know… Prescribed by ayurveda and our ancient monks”
“Yeah.. I know meditation can help. But that’s not the whole thing. I need someone to guide me. Someone I can talk to about things.”
“Okay…. But I will accompany you to the therapist.”
“Okayy, but they are not going to let you in the counselling room.”
“What? Whyyy? I am your mother. I need to know if you have any problem in your life.”
“Mom.. it doesn’t work that way… And I will be fine. I promise.”
“…”
“Soooo?”
“I guess its okay that you are doing it on your own. And there is nothing wrong in getting some help… I will help you find a good counsellor nearby.”
This is how the conversation went first time I told my parents I want to see a therapist. Thankfully they were on board sooner than I expected. But I find few instances in this conversation funny and hence sharing it. But jokes aside, mental health is worth seeking help for. Talk to your parents, friends and seek a good therapist.
Vrunda Chauk 
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