Cost/Benefit: Is Therapy Worth Investing In?

There is no doubt in the link between the quality of our mental health and our physical wellbeing. In fact, persistent stress is associated with physical ailments like high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. For the general public, these medical conditions warrant a trip to the doctor. The stress, however, is more likely to remain untreated.
 
There are many reasons why people decide not to see a therapist or mental health professional. Finding time in our busy schedules, the stigma associated with seeking support, and the costs of such services are likely candidates for preventing us from engaging. Furthermore, one study found the general public to have little confidence in how effective therapy can be. A shame, since the findings are clear that therapy is widely effective for numerous emotional and behavioural issues.
 
The purpose of this blog is to look at mental health services from a Cost/Benefit perspective viewing, in particular, what return on investment there is. This fits in with my recent efforts to help therapy clients see themselves as “Consumers” who are purchasing a service with an expected outcome.
 
The first area worth exploring is Work. In Australia, depression is the leading cause of disability in the workplace. In fact, it is the foremost cause of disability worldwide. It is estimated that over one million adults are living with depression and two million with anxiety.  Additionally, nearly eight Australians take their lives each day. The numbers are bleak and not encouraging and investing in our mental health is worth it.
 
As an employer, I know that wellbeing within our organisation is key. If an employee is struggling emotionally, it is likely to result in less productivity thereby hurting the business. Because depression keeps talented and skilled individuals out of the workforce, it is worth the cost and will likely lead to return on investment.
 
As a parent of a teenager, it is no different. How can we tell when a child is struggling emotionally? They may be experimenting with drugs and alcohol, disengaging from school, or self-harming. All being a cause for concern, the impact of this path can lead to struggles in adulthood.  
 
Viewing therapy from the perspective of a consumer does involve reviewing the cost and benefit of such services. Different rates of reimbursement exist worldwide, and there are many types of helping professions (i.e. social workers, psychologists, counsellors, etc.) that make it challenging when searching for the right support. If you want the best chance for getting the most out of therapy here is what you need to know.
 
The most effective therapists achieve results within eight sessions and just under six months. The link between heart disease, the leading cause of death for adults in Australia, and stress is one reason to make therapy an option. Effective at reducing stress and anxiety, seeing a competent therapist is an option of preventative medicine. It also works fast.
 
But how do you find the most effective therapists? Imagine that you’re buying a new refrigerator. You have found two that interest you and you start comparing. Most consumers are not concerned about how the product works but if it works. Now, imagine that you’ve taken the courageous step to reach out to a therapist. Your primary goal is to find a professional experienced and skilled at helping people in similar situations to you. And yes, it is ok to ask your therapist how effective they are. They should know.
 
Therapy is a collaborative journey. It involves a therapist and participant working together to overcome obstacles, which in turn, leads to a healthier and more productive life.  The return on investment is there. For our children, therapy can lead to increased independence, performance, and happiness. All well worth investing in. For adults, physical health, improved relationships, and more productivity in the workplace are all ways we can get ahead in life.
 
There are many ways to reduce stress and therapy is only one of the many valid options. It is, however, an option worth investing in.  
 
See you on the trail...

Will Dobud 
www.willdobud.com
www.truenorthexpeditions.com.au
0477161768

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