Fatal Fantasy

Going to a Counsellor

The other day, I finally went to my school's counselor. Of course, I was nervous. I had asked her, shakily, if I could come in at some point to talk. And she told me that she would call me from my math class after lunch. I was freaking out at lunch, unable to breathe. I felt completely, terribly, overwhelmingly sick and I thought that I would faint in the school hallway.

But when I was called to her office - I saw some of my friends give me suspicious looks - I walked through the door and forced myself down the hallway, to her office. I remember shaking and I felt unsteady, as if I would topple over and never get back up. At the time, that felt like a better option than walking into her office.

It was silent in there and I sat down and she stared at me, gently, asking what was wrong. I spilled everything, hating the way my voice sounded. It was terrible and shaky and tears choked my words. But I said things and I went into a bit of detail. She glided in soon enough, though, asking questions and giving me a serious, but concerned and caring, expression. It felt amazing to just let it mostly all out. Even if I cried and shook and complained, it felt incredible to just... talk.

I left, afterwards, with another 'appointment' time scribbled on a piece of paper. I couldn't help smile as I walked back to math class.

The point is, I just wanted to tell you that you may be nervous to see a counselor. You may be scared. You may be terrified. But it's worth it, for so many different reasons. 

The counselor is a professional. They know what they're doing and they can give you helpful, supportive advice.She/he does not judge. Never ever.The counselor knows. If something's been bothering you, the counselor will most likely know. He/she watches the school like a hawk, observing the students and the way they act. The reason why I know this is because a few of my friends are included in a 'Stand Up' team, with the counselor, who talks about seeing the signs of a struggling student.

Everything is confidential; she/he will not talk to your parents or anyone else about your visits, unless you give permission. My counselor suggested I see my family doctor, but when I told her that I didn't want to tell my mom about this, she said I could visit the nurse in the University near my school. My mom doesn't even have to know about it.

 It helps. It helps so, so much, and I need to stress this. I need to announce this. It helps. It's a lot more different than talking to your friends.

The advice is extremely helpful and works.  My counselor gave amazing advice to keep myself distracted. I was happy after our visit, and although the feeling didn't last, I know that the more I go, the more I'll recover.

Makes you one step closer to recovering. We all want to recover, and admitting that you need help and seeking it is a needed step.

Go the counselor when you feel you're ready. I encourage and really recommend going if you're struggling or hurting. There's really nothing to lose and it can make you feel happy. It won't happen overnight, but the more you go, the more you're life will change - in a good way. There's really no reason to be nervous and I wish I knew that earlier.

Still nervous and doubting? It's okay. Maybe I can convince you, or give helpful tips on how to visit your counselor.

First, considering telling an ideal friend that you trust. They can't force you to go, but they can encourage you every time you pass a counselor in the hallway. They can be helpful and hold your hand a long the way.

Realize that there is nothing to be ashamed of. If you're scared that your friends will think you're doing it for attention, brainstorm with your counselor excuses of why you visit him/her. That's what I did with my counselor and only one of my friends know the real reason I go now.

If you're too scared to ask in person, write a note and slide it under your counselor's office door!

Don't convince yourself not to go. Do the opposite and agree that you should go, that you need help dealing with the pain and suffering that you shouldn't have to go through.

Realize that you don't have to go back. Try it out with an open mind and consider deeply if you want to go back to another 'session' with your counselor or not. 

Remember: if the first session isn't helpful, that doesn't mean the second won't be.Realize that you're strong but you need the help. There's nothing wrong with wanting help. There is nothing wrong with recovering.

If for any reason, your school doesn't have a counselor,

talk to your principal. Give them a wake-up call, saying that the

school is in need of a trained, trustworthy and professional

counselor.

Also, counselors aren't only at school; there's most likely some in your city/town,

but it usually requires money.

Consider online, free therapy. Like 7 Cups Of Tea.

You can also look for a reliable and helpful program near you,

that deals with teenager's problems, worries, concerns, etc. However, make sure that the

program is safe and don't go anywhere without telling someone. Consider discussing the program with

your parents.

And remember; there are helpful, willing-to-listen counselors all around you. Brothers, sisters, parents, friends.

Maybe they're not trained or professional, but they might be willing to lend an ear and hold your

hand as you go through the difficulties of recovering.