Category: Mental Health

Happy Pride Month!

Pride is not only a vibrant celebration of love, diversity, and acceptance but also symbolizes a crucial movement for mental health awareness and advocacy within the LGBTQIA+ community. For many queer individuals, the journey towards self-acceptance and public acknowledgment of their identity is intertwined with significant mental health struggles. Discrimination, stigma, and a lack of understanding about queerness often exacerbate these challenges. Therefore, celebrating Pride not only encourages education and awareness about different sexualities and gender identities but also promotes a sense of community so that individuals can have support in discovering their identity and navigating challenges they may face as a result of their queerness. For this year’s Pride, we aspired to create this blog post to acknowledge the historical significance of Pride, delve into the specific mental health issues affecting LGBTQIA+ individuals, and discuss how Pride events and inclusive mental health treatments can foster better wellbeing to educate others and support individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community.

History of Pride

Pride events and the broader Pride movement play a transformative role in promoting visibility, fostering community support, and advocating for inclusive mental health treatment for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Pride began as a response to the systemic oppression and discrimination that queer individuals faced at the time. Its catalyst was the Stonewall Riots in June 1969, when patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City fought against police harassment. Before the Stonewall Riots, life for LGBTQIA+ individuals was marked by pervasive discrimination, secrecy, and fear within society. Homosexuality was largely stigmatized and criminalized, leading many LGBTQIA+ individuals to hide their identities out of fear. Social venues that were viewed as a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals, such as gay bars, were frequently targeted by police raids, which resulted in arrests, harassment, and public humiliation for queer individuals. These raids were often violent and could lead to the loss of jobs, homes, and reputations due to the widespread societal condemnation of queer identities.

LGBTQIA+ individuals faced systemic exclusion from many areas of public life, including employment, housing, and healthcare. There was little to no legal protection against discrimination, and societal norms heavily enforced heterosexual and cisgender conformity. The medical community often pathologized LGBTQIA+ identities, classifying homosexuality as a mental illness, which justified harmful treatments and therapies aimed at “curing” queer individuals. These therapies commonly involved conversion therapy, which is a practice aimed at changing an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity to align with heterosexual or cisgender norms. Treatment methods for conversion therapy have been known to include counseling, religious interventions, visualizations, and, in extreme cases, aversive treatments like electroshock therapy. The goal of this treatment has been to suppress or eliminate same-sex attractions and enforce traditional gender roles. Conversion therapy has been widely condemned by major medical and mental health organizations as unethical and harmful, leading to severe psychological distress, depression, anxiety, and increased risk of suicide.

In this oppressive environment, many LGBTQIA+ individuals lived in constant fear of exposure and persecution. Social networks and support systems were often limited to clandestine gatherings and secret relationships for queer individuals. Despite these challenges, small pockets of activism and community support began to form, setting the stage for the more visible and organized resistance that would emerge during and after the Stonewall Riots.

The Stonewall Riots occurred in the early hours of June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in New York City. Police raids on such establishments were common, driven by laws criminalizing homosexual behavior and societal norms that stigmatized LGBTQIA+ identities. However, on this night, the patrons of the Stonewall Inn, including many transgender women of color and drag queens, decided to resist. As police attempted to make arrests, the crowd grew angry and began to fight back, throwing objects and pushing back against the officers. The confrontation escalated, leading to several nights of protests and clashes with law enforcement.

The immediate aftermath of the riots saw a surge in activism within the LGBTQIA+ community. The sense of solidarity and outrage sparked by the events at Stonewall led to new advocacy groups, such as the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) and the Gay Activists Alliance (GAA). These groups organized protests, marches, and educational campaigns to fight for LGBTQIA+ rights.

One year after the riots, on June 28, 1970, the first Pride marches were held in New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago to commemorate the anniversary of Stonewall. These marches marked the beginning of what would become an annual tradition that celebrates queer identities and advocacy for equality. Pride also became a platform for addressing ongoing issues such as transgender rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. Today, Pride events are celebrated worldwide, promoting visibility, acceptance, and the ongoing fight for equality.

Why Pride Matters Today

Although we have made significant strides in fostering awareness and inclusivity for LGBTQIA+ community members, there is still hate and discrimination for queer individuals present in our society today. When faced with such hardships, LGBTQIA+ community members have shown to have profound negative impacts on their mental health as a result. When queer individuals are exposed to discrimination for their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, they face a greater risk of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation when compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers. Persistent exposure to hostile environments and negative societal attitudes heightens stress-related disorders for LGBTQIA+ community members. Exposure to discrimination or hate can also lead individuals to feel like they must reject or repress their queer identity. This internal conflict can result in low self-esteem or worthlessness due to their inability to live authentically. Physically, the stress and mental health challenges associated with identity repression can manifest as physical health problems, such as chronic stress, substance abuse, and other unhealthy coping mechanisms. These health issues further compound the adverse effects that rejecting one’s identity has on one’s overall wellbeing. 

Socially, many queer individuals may also experience feelings of loneliness and alienation because they do not fit the heteronormative role that our society has aligned itself with. Coming out as LGBTQIA+ can present significant risks, as individuals often face a range of adverse reactions from others. This can make it challenging for queer individuals to feel safe seeking support from their friends and family due to the fear that they may not be accepted as their true selves. In some cases, coming out can result in homelessness, particularly among LGBTQIA+ youth who may be rejected or disowned by their families. Additionally, they face the threat of discrimination in all aspects of life, including at work or school, which can lead to harassment, bullying, or even job loss. The fear of violence is also a genuine concern, as LGBTQIA + individuals are at a higher risk of being targeted for hate crimes. These risks contribute to heightened levels of stress and anxiety for queer individuals, deciding to come out a deeply personal and challenging one that requires careful consideration of one’s safety and wellbeing.

Queer individuals can face barriers when they are seeking culturally competent health and mental health providers that both understand and respect LGBTQIA+ identities and needs. In healthcare, the fear of discrimination and past negative experiences with providers often deter LGBTQIA+ community members from seeking necessary medical help, which can result in inadequate or inappropriate care for these individuals. Access to specialized services is also a challenge, particularly for those in rural areas where LGBTQIA+-friendly providers are scarce. Economic barriers further complicate access, as higher rates of unemployment and underemployment among queer individuals can lead to financial difficulties and a lack of insurance coverage. These combined obstacles create substantial disparities in health outcomes for the queer community.

In conclusion, Pride is a vital catalyst for promoting mental health and wellbeing within the LGBTQ+ community. By raising awareness of the unique challenges queer individuals face, Pride events foster visibility, acceptance, and support. Addressing the mental health impact of discrimination, stigma, and the lack of understanding is essential for creating inclusive and compassionate healthcare environments. As we celebrate the progress made through the Pride movement, it is crucial to continue advocating for culturally competent mental health resources and to support those on their journey towards self-acceptance and wellbeing. Together, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive regardless of identity.

How is Pride Supportive to LGBTQIA+ Mental Health?

Pride plays a crucial role in advocating for better mental health resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community. Through its celebrations, Pride raises visibility and awareness about the unique mental health challenges faced by queer individuals, thereby fostering a broader understanding and acceptance within society. Pride events often include educational workshops, panels, and resource fairs that provide information about mental health services and support networks. By bringing these issues to the forefront, Pride encourages developing and disseminating culturally competent mental health care tailored to LGBTQ+ needs.

In addition to creating a space for education and networking opportunities, Pride fosters a sense of community and belonging. Feeling seen and supported by others for being your authentic self is vital to promoting mental wellbeing for those in the LGBTQIA+ community. The solidarity found in Pride events helps reduce feelings of isolation and stigma, promoting positive mental health. Advocacy during Pride also drives policy changes by highlighting the need for inclusive mental health services and pushing for legislative reforms that protect and support LGBTQ+ individuals. Overall, Pride serves as a powerful platform for mobilizing resources, educating the public, and advocating for comprehensive mental health care that addresses the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

Here at See You Through It Counseling, we welcome clients of all different gender identities and sexualities. We understand the importance of being seen and understood as one’s authentic self, so we pride ourselves on providing culturally appropriate treatment strategies for the LGBTQIA + community. We also have counselors who specialize in working with this population, so if you or someone you know is seeking support in navigating their identity or hardships specific to being in the LGBTQIA+ community, consider reaching out to one of our counselors today! We would feel honored to accompany you in your healing and self-discovery journey.

To Learn More or Book an Appointment

Interested in learning more mental health tips, tricks, or facts? Check out our blog or head to our resource page to learn more.

For more information about Autism, check out: Global Action for Trans Equality: Equality and Dignity for all — GATE | Global Action for Trans Equality

If you are interested in seeing a See You Through It Counseling therapist, book an appointment.

To discover what the therapists at See You Through It Counseling offer, please go to our team page.

As we enjoy April’s flowers and showers, we also want to highlight that April is Autism Awareness Month! Having a month dedicated to Autism awareness allows us to increase our society’s understanding and acceptance of Autism Spectrum Disorder. It’s an opportunity to promote inclusion, support individuals on the spectrum, and educate the public about the diverse needs and strengths of individuals with autism, which is our mission behind curating this post!

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism, often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how individuals perceive the world and interact with others. Differences in communication, social interaction, and behavior characterize it. Understanding autism is crucial for individuals and families directly impacted and our society as a whole. By recognizing and accepting neurodiversity within our communities, we can create more inclusive environments where everyone is valued for their unique strengths and contributions.

Dispelling Common Misconceptions about Autism

The first step in truly understanding autism is to dispel any common misconceptions that we may hold. Autism used to be classified as many separate conditions like Asperger Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, or Kanner Syndrome. Now, it is recognized as a spectrum disorder, encompassing a diverse range of characteristics and challenges. This spectrum includes individuals with varying degrees of challenges in social skills, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Some individuals may require significant support in their daily lives.

In contrast, others may need less support and may even excel in certain areas. The term “spectrum” acknowledges the diversity of experiences and abilities among individuals with ASD and emphasizes that each person’s journey with autism is unique. In the context of autism, describing it as a monolithic disorder would suggest viewing it as a single, homogeneous entity without recognizing the spectrum of characteristics, abilities, and challenges that various individuals with autism may exhibit.

Secondly, attributing autism to lousy parenting or vaccines is unfounded and has been thoroughly discredited by scientific research. The wrongful belief that vaccines cause autism began with Andrew Wakefield’s study, published in The Lancet in 1998, which suggested a link between the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines and autism. However, the study involved only 12 children and had significant methodological flaws. Wakefield also had financial conflicts of interest and failed to disclose them, as it was discovered that he was involved in litigation against vaccine manufacturers at the time of the study. Subsequent investigations also uncovered ethical breaches, including falsified data and unethical treatment of the children involved, further invalidating the research findings. The Lancet retracted the study in 2010, and Wakefield was stripped of his medical license. The scientific community widely regards this study as thoroughly discredited. Contrary to this research’s findings, autism arises from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Therefore, vaccines and parenting styles have no causal link to the condition.

Lastly, while some individuals with autism may possess exceptional talents or abilities in certain areas, not everyone on the spectrum has these extraordinary skills. Autism is a spectrum disorder in the way that it presents differently in each individual. While some people on the autism spectrum may indeed possess exceptional talents or abilities, not everyone does. The idea that everyone on the spectrum has exceptional talents is a stereotype. It doesn’t reflect the diverse range of skills and challenges individuals with autism may experience. Just like neurotypical individuals, people with autism have a wide variety of skills, interests, and capabilities. Recognizing and supporting each person is important, rather than assuming they possess specific traits based solely on their diagnosis.

Spectrum Diversity and Individual Differences

Diversity within populations with autism is complex, encompassing a wide range of factors. From varying neurodiverse profiles to diverse communication styles, each individual with autism brings a unique perspective and set of experiences. Sensory sensitivities play a significant role, with some individuals hypersensitive to sensory input. In contrast, others may be hyposensitive, meaning they are not as impacted by sensory stimuli. Furthermore, the concept of neurodiversity highlights the importance of understanding autism as a natural variation in the human brain rather than a disorder. Embracing this diversity involves recognizing and respecting differences in age, gender, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, cultural background, language, and cognitive abilities. This holistic approach highlights the need for personalized support and inclusive practices to ensure all individuals with autism can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

Individuals with autism often exhibit unique personal strengths that positively impact their lives and benefit the world around them. One notable strength is their intense focus and attention to detail. This characteristic allows them to delve deeply into specific interests or subjects diligently and passionately. This focused attention can lead to expertise in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, music, art, literature, or anything else you can imagine! Additionally, many individuals with autism have exceptional memory skills, particularly for factual information or patterns, which can be advantageous in their academic or professional pursuits. Their creativity and original thinking can offer fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to problems. Individuals with autism are also known to be honest and have integrity, as shown by their firm adherence to their values.

Characteristics and Diagnosis of Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder is diagnosed based on specific criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To receive an autism diagnosis, an individual must demonstrate persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts. Common symptoms include challenges in social settings, such as difficulty understanding social cues like tone of voice or body language, maintaining eye contact, or engaging in reciprocal conversation. Individuals with autism may also exhibit repetitive behaviors such as hand-flapping, rocking, or intense preoccupation with specific topics or objects. Sensory sensitivities are common within this population, which can lead to one experiencing over- or under-reactivity to sensory stimuli like sound, light, taste, or touch. Communication difficulties can also be present and range from delayed speech development to atypical use of language, such as stimming. Additionally, individuals with autism may struggle with changes in routine, have difficulty understanding others’ perspectives, or display an intense focus on specific details while overlooking the broader context. It’s essential to recognize that autism symptoms can manifest differently in each person, and not all individuals will experience every symptom.

In addition to the core criteria, the DSM-5 specifies additional considerations for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder. These include the severity levels of the symptoms, ranging from requiring support to requiring very substantial support, and the importance of assessing for associated features such as intellectual or language impairment, medical conditions, and sensory sensitivities. These symptoms must be present from early childhood and cause significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Additionally, the symptoms present cannot be better explained by intellectual disability or global developmental delay.

To receive an autism diagnosis, one must undergo a careful assessment by trained professionals like child neurologists or psychiatrists, who can effectively evaluate one’s developmental history, presenting symptoms or behaviors, and any other relevant medical or genetic factors. The diagnosis process typically involves comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team, including clinicians, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and other specialists, to ensure accurate identification and appropriate support for individuals with autism.

Challenges Faced by Individuals with Autism

Individuals with autism often face a wide range of challenges that can impact various aspects of their daily lives. In the realm of social skills, struggling to understand and respond to social cues can make it difficult for individuals with autism to maintain friendships and navigate social situations, which can lead to feelings of isolation or exclusion. Individuals with autism can also experience communication challenges, including difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication and challenges in expressing thoughts, needs, and emotions effectively. When one is experiencing sensory sensitivities, it can make environments or situations feel overwhelming or uncomfortable to them. This can lead to sensory overload, making them more likely to engage in avoidance behaviors. Executive function deficits can also manifest as needing help with planning, organization, and time management. Deficits in executive function can affect one’s ability to be independent and navigate responsibilities on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, individuals with autism’s tendency to rigidly adhere to routines or fixate on interests can lead to them having difficulty with life transitions and adapting to new situations.

When one does not receive an accurate diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, it can have significant consequences for the individual and their families. When someone is misdiagnosed, or their autism is overlooked, they may not receive the appropriate support and interventions tailored to their unique needs from providers. This can lead to the individual with autism feeling frustrated, confused, and isolated in navigating the challenges they’re facing in life. Misdiagnosis may also delay access to early intervention services, which are crucial for improving long-term outcomes for individuals with autism. Without proper diagnosis and support, individuals may struggle to understand their difficulties and fail to develop coping strategies to help them feel more equipped to navigate daily life. Additionally, misdiagnosis can contribute to feelings of self-doubt and low self-esteem, as these individuals may not fully understand why they experience challenges that others do not. Healthcare professionals must conduct thorough evaluations and consider all possible factors when assessing autism to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate support for individuals and their families.

Access to appropriate support, understanding, and accommodations can significantly mitigate the challenges that individuals with autism face. Access and the ability to benefit from these resources can promote success and well-being for individuals with autism. However, a lack of awareness or understanding of autism among healthcare providers, educators, and community members can result in inadequate support and accommodations. Therefore, if one does not have access to a trained professional with a specialty in autism or has experience working with individuals on the spectrum, interacting with untrained or inexperienced providers can lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment.

Supporting individuals with autism requires both individualized and community-wide efforts. 

Supporting Individuals with Autism

At an individual level, there are various ways to help individuals with autism, even without being a professional provider. Building understanding and empathy is key. We encourage you to take the time to continue to learn about autism and its characteristics, as well as benefit from learning the specific needs and preferences of the individual you’re supporting. Practice patience and flexibility, recognizing that each person with autism is unique and may require different forms of support. Offer clear communication and provide opportunities for the individual to express themselves in comfortable ways, whether through verbal communication, written messages, or nonverbal means. Be mindful of sensory sensitivities or accommodations and create calm and supportive environments.

At a community level, you can advocate for inclusive policies and practices in schools, workplaces, and public spaces to ensure that individuals with autism have equal access to opportunities and support services. Advocacy efforts, increased awareness, and policy changes are essential to address these challenges and ensure that individuals with autism have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. We can promote awareness and acceptance of autism by fostering a culture of inclusion and respect by encouraging empathy and understanding among community members. By taking these steps, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with autism and contribute to building a more supportive community for everyone.

Announcement of New Team Member

In addition to advocating for autism awareness and advocacy in this post, we also wanted to announce that we are welcoming our newest team member, Tori Hart, MA, LAC! She is continuing her education at Immaculata University to obtain her doctoral degree in clinical psychology. In addition to pursuing her degree, she also accepts new clients at See You Through It Counseling! Tori has experience working with children and teens with autism, as well as family members of someone with autism who is looking for support. Tori is very skilled at working with this population and could be the perfect fit for you or someone with the knowledge to improve their quality of life! If you are looking for a provider with the expertise and resources to support individuals with autism, please consider checking out her profile and reaching out today!

To Learn More or Book an Appointment

Interested in learning more mental health tips, tricks, or facts? Check out our blog or head to our resource page to learn more.

For more information about Autism, check out: Autism Research Institute

If you are interested in seeing a See You Through It Counseling therapist, book an appointment.

To discover what the therapists at See You Through It Counseling offer, please go to our team page.

As humans, how we connect and relate to one another can be crucial to our well-being. Since the beginning of our creation as a species, humans have relied on social interactions for survival. Cooperation within social groups historically provided protection from predators, assistance in hunting and gathering food, sharing of knowledge and skills, and support during times of hardship. Social bonds facilitated the exchange of resources, information, and technologies, ultimately enhancing individuals’ and communities’ chances of survival and success. 

Though our modern world looks quite different now than in the past, our longing for connection amongst one another has remained unchanged. The need for approval from others is a fundamental aspect of human psychology. It can influence our behavior, decisions, self-esteem, and sense of belonging. In today’s individualistic society, where achievement and success are greatly valued, we may feel the need to perform to the absolute best of our abilities in nearly every aspect of life to feel worthy of approval from others. This need to perform can lead us to submit to an exhausting and insatiable pursuit- striving for perfection. 

What Is Perfectionism?

Perfectionism is a personality trait characterized by striving for flawlessness and setting excessively high standards for oneself. Individuals with perfectionistic tendencies often feel intense pressure to meet these standards, leading to dissatisfaction, self-criticism, and anxiety when they perceive they have fallen short of their expectations. Perfectionists may also engage in repetitive behaviors or procrastinate for fear of making mistakes or not meeting their standards. While striving for excellence can be positive, perfectionism becomes problematic when it interferes with our well-being and relationships.

The Negative Impacts of Perfectionism on Mental Health

The act of constantly chasing perfection in our lives can have detrimental effects on mental health. The pursuit of perfection creates a perpetual cycle of stress and anxiety due to one’s restless attempts to meet their own or others’ unattainable standards. This heightened pressure often leads to feelings of inadequacy, worthlessness, and fear of failure, which can contribute to the manifestation of symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, perfectionists may engage in procrastination or avoidance behaviors, further exacerbating their stress levels and impairing their ability to function effectively.

Perfectionism can also negatively impact one’s personal life. The unrealistic expectations perfectionists place on themselves, and others can strain relationships and hinder their social connections. Over time, the relentless pursuit of perfection can lead to burnout, as individuals neglect self-care and fail to prioritize balance and rest. The toll of perfectionism isn’t limited to mental health, as chronic stress and anxiety can also manifest in physical health issues.

The Root Causes of Perfectionism and How They Manifest

Now, you may be wondering, how can someone let themselves feel so pressured to be perfect, knowing how stressful and draining it is to constantly strive for this unattainable goal? These values are often instilled in us from such a young age that we may not even be conscious that we have them!

Perfectionist tendencies often trace their origins to a combination of factors deeply rooted in one’s upbringing, societal influences, personality traits, and past experiences. During childhood, individuals may have been exposed to environments where their achievements were highly praised or faced strict standards or expectations set by parents or caregivers. In such environments, the belief that one’s worth is tied to one’s performance can form, which then manifests as fostering perfectionism to maintain self-esteem and approval. 

Societal pressures play a significant role in the creation and maintenance of perfectionism. Modern cultures often equate success with perfection in many domains of life, such as academics, careers, appearance, and relationships. This societal expectation to excel can intensify the drive towards perfectionism as individuals strive to meet or exceed these standards to gain acceptance and validation within their communities. 

Additionally, certain personality traits, specifically conscientiousness and neuroticism, can contribute to the development of perfectionism. Conscientious individuals may inherently possess a drive for high standards and achievement. At the same time, neurotic tendencies can manifest as anxiety and fear of making mistakes, further reinforcing perfectionist behaviors. 

Collectively, these factors interact and shape individuals’ tendencies towards perfectionism, influencing their thoughts, behaviors, and emotional well-being. Because there are so many different origins for perfectionism, this trait can also take various forms that influence individuals’ behaviors and mental health differently. 

Here are some examples of how perfectionism can manifest differently:

• Self-Oriented Perfectionism: Striving for flawlessness in one’s actions and performance.
• Other-Oriented Perfectionism: Imposing unrealistic standards on others and being overly critical of their performance.
• Socially Prescribed Perfectionism: Feeling pressure to succeed from external sources, such as society, family, or peers, to meet high standards.
• Perfectionism Concerning Mistakes: Having an intense fear of making mistakes and striving to avoid them at all costs.

If you recognize these tendencies within yourself, rest assured that you are not alone. Research suggests that perfectionism is becoming increasingly common, particularly in Western societies, which strongly emphasize achievement and success. Studies have shown that perfectionism rates have risen over the past few decades, especially among young people.

A meta-analysis published in the Psychological Bulletin 2019 found that self-oriented perfectionism has increased substantially among college students over the past 30 years. Similarly, other-oriented and socially prescribed perfectionism has also shown upward trends.

How to Cope With Perfectionism

Coping with perfectionism often involves adopting strategies to manage our unrealistic standards and the excessive self-criticism that typically accompanies it. Here are some techniques that may be helpful for you:

1. Set realistic goals: Break tasks into smaller, manageable goals so they feel less overwhelming. Focus on your growth or progress rather than perfection.
2. Challenge negative thoughts: Practice cognitive restructuring by questioning and reframing perfectionistic beliefs and thoughts. When these thoughts arise, acknowledge them and separate them from your sense of self. You can’t control when these thoughts occur, but you can decide how you wish to act on them.
3. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes, which are inevitable because perfection is unattainable. 
4. Embrace imperfection: Allow yourself to make mistakes and view them as opportunities for growth and learning rather than viewing them as failures.
5. Focus on the process: Shift your focus from the end result to the journey. Start trying to enjoy the experience of working towards your goals instead of prioritizing your results.
6. Shift your mindset: Develop a healthy perspective by recognizing that perfectionism can be limiting and that striving for excellence without demanding perfection is okay.
7. Set boundaries: Learn to say no to unrealistic demands and prioritize self-care to avoid feelings of stress and burnout.
8. Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your perfectionism and explore coping strategies together. At See You Through It Counseling, we offer support for individuals struggling with perfectionism. We currently have providers accepting new clients if you want to pursue individual counseling for these concerns. 

By implementing these coping strategies, we can gradually reduce the negative impact of perfectionism and cultivate a healthier and more balanced approach to life and achievement. 

Struggling with perfectionism can feel debilitating and helpful. Still, you are worthy of happiness in life, even if you are imperfect. Try using these resources and techniques to free yourself of the shackles of perfectionism and see how practicing self-acceptance can improve your well-being and quality of life.

To Learn More or Book an Appointment

Interested in learning more mental health tips, tricks, or facts? Check out our blog or head to our resource page to learn more.

For more information about perfectionism, check out: Perfectionism: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention (healthline.com)

If you are interested in seeing a See You Through It Counseling therapist, book an appointment.

To discover what the therapists at See You Through It Counseling offer, please go to our team page.