Venting vs. Counseling

[BecJo13]

Something I read in another post made me think to ask this...in the ups and downs of your QLC crisis, has anyone close to you (like parents, family, etc.) been so concerned as to think you should see a counselor?

My parents have suggested this to me, but I think all I really need is healthy venting, such as through this site, not counseling. My parents care about my wellbeing a lot, but I don't think they quite understand my situation...neither went to a 4-year college, let alone moved away from home to go attend college, so I don't see how they can possibly relate to the experiences I've had, and then returning back to the area I grew up in - they've lived here their entire lifes, so the transition isn't relevant.

I'm sure it's just that they can't stand seeing me unhappy, but it becomes bothersome to me when they bring up counseling. I truly don't feel it's a matter of depression, or something that severe, though it is still very difficult. Even my posts from the last couple of days are helping to lift my spirits some.

Just curious if anyone can relate?

Bec

[pisces2473]

Maybe they are suggesting counseling to you because they see how frustrated you are that they can't identify with what you're going through? My parents went to college, but only have their associates. My mom commuted, my dad went away but in state. My mom married my dad at 21 and moved to CT from RI, so she's lived in our town longer than she lived in RI! When I moved to Boston and didn't know a soul (before I moved back to CT) they would try to be understanding but I would call them and cry and vent and be miserable.

I started seeing a psychologist after my freshman year of college due to some anxiety problems. Over the years, I would see her on breaks, during the summer, etc. Just to check in. Now that I'm home, I go a lot just to deal with the "crap" I need to vent about--job I don't like, not many friends, no dating life, etc. It helps--I felt really bad about complaining to my parents and friends ALL the time.

[libscigrl]

I agree that counseling can be helpful; I saw counselors in both college and grad school. They can offer a more objective view than those who are close to you and aren't just for people going through serious depression.

But then, one has to seek out what works best for you. Maybe it's finding an activity or hobby that relaxes you or makes you fit or helps you to be creative.

I think though, that your mom only means well. If nothing else, perhaps you could write her a note explaining how you feel. I think if a parent feels you are letting them into your world a bit, they may be more inclined to back off.

Hope it all works out.

[coll214]

Me and my friends are saying all the time how we should try and get a group rate on counseling!! LOL

Seriously though, i have thought about going, but like you said Bec, venting on this site and talking to others has helped me. A few months ago i was really down in the dumps- moving out of my mother's house i think was harder than i thought it would be...especially for me b/c i commuted to school, i moved out of my hometown (but am still close by and visit constantly), and i was getting tired of everyone telling me how i should live my life (parents, friends, etc.)...One of my friends was actually mad at me for leaving the town (she's lived there her entire life, ALL of her family is there and has no intentions of leaving). That's great for her, but I needed a change.
I've decided that a lot of people have gone through similar things as me, and after visiting this site and finding out that there are others like me has been a HUGE relief for me.

Good luck and i'm sure whatever you decide will be right for you!!