FACING FEARS
I have decided to start my blogging adventure, by opening a window to the world of mental health, and giving insight to what I refer to as my “daily life lessons as a therapist”. Before doing so, I must mention that I have experienced joy from the 12 years of working in the mental health field. My encounters have changed my life, and the lives of others. I give all credit to my Creator for allowing me to experience positive interactions, as well as develop the ability to find positives in negative experiences.
With that said, I had a routine appointment with a kiddo (that I will refer to as Jace), whom I frequently have “mind picking” discussions with during sessions. Me being human, I found myself at a dead end on how to assist Jace with facing his fears that seemed so simple to me, but complex to him. Jace suffers from anxiety, and is refusing to attend school like so many kiddos that I have counseled. In the mist of him explaining how others don’t understand him and his reasoning for not wanting to attend, I found myself developing empathy for his condition, and humbling myself to not discount him as another student, making excuses for not wanting to attend school. After giving validity to his feelings and concerns, he engaged me into his viewpoint of how he lacks support from family and school staff (even though they appear to be over supportive), vocalized fear of being bullied and judged because of his age, and being 2 years behind academically. Jace also openly admitted to making frequent excuses to not attend school, and wanting to avoid facing fears.
After the session, I reviewed the discussion regarding fears mentioned, and considered how they often prevent us from making the best choices, and formulating positive changes in our lives. I had thoughts as to how I could explain to Jace repeatedly, that trusting and believing for something positive to happen could be a source of motivation, or point out again how his parents were super supportive in guiding him in the right direction. Lastly, I questioned readdressing how focusing on goals and learning coping skills to dispute triggers could be the key, but none of it would matter if Jace didn’t experience the change for himself and have that personal experience.
I often pray for clients and honestly believe that we are placed in the lives of others for a reason, and can be a light in times of darkness and confusion. In the event of offering support, despite a lack of understanding and disagreement with their motives, we can show the love of Christ, which may be a divine source of motivation, leading others to make progress with reducing anxiety. Jace touched my heart that day and changed my perspective, teaching me to be patient, loving and kind in hopes that he will make progress over time. After a few sessions, setbacks and progress, he is slowly coming to terms with facing fears of attending school.
