Breaking Down Barriers: Making Therapy a Priority
As the pandemic continues to reshape our lives, one thing has become abundantly clear: mental health matters. For Asian-Americans like myself, however, therapy has long been a taboo topic. But I’ve learned that embracing mental health resources is crucial for a happy and healthy life.
My Journey to Normalizing Therapy
In college, I began to prioritize my mental well-being by seeking out therapy. However, the cost was a significant obstacle. With no insurance coverage, I had to pay out-of-pocket, which required a drastic overhaul of my budget. I was hesitant to make changes, as I had carefully curated a budget that worked perfectly for my lifestyle. But I knew that investing in my mental health was essential for my future.
The Budget Revamp
To accommodate therapy, I made some tough decisions. First, I reduced my savings for larger goals, such as travel, from 15% to 10% of my take-home pay. With the pandemic limiting travel options, this adjustment wasn’t as painful as I thought it would be.
Next, I axed my gym membership, which accounted for 3.5% of my salary. Although I loved the gym’s amenities and community, I realized that free online workout classes and at-home routines could suffice. This change allowed me to allocate funds more efficiently.
Finding Creative Solutions
To bridge the remaining 6.5% gap in my budget, I considered seeing my therapist less frequently. While weekly sessions are ideal, I realized that bi-weekly or monthly meetings could be a more sustainable option for me. This flexibility helped me adapt to the new budget constraints without sacrificing my mental health.
The Takeaway
Prioritizing therapy requires creativity and compromise. By reassessing my budget and lifestyle, I was able to make room for this essential investment. It’s not always easy, but recognizing the importance of mental health is the first step towards a happier, healthier life.
Leave a Reply