UAE: High Costs Drive Youth to Self-Help
Many people are opting to turn to self-help books and unreliable internet sources instead of going through traditional therapy due to the expensive nature of therapy and the lasting negative perception of mental health.
Nafsi Health, an officially recognized online therapy platform, recently conducted a survey that showed stigma continues to be the main obstacle to receiving therapy. The primary reason for avoiding therapy for almost 9 out of 10 people, or 87 percent of respondents, is the fear of being judged by family and society.
Tayeb Hassan, co-founder and CEO of Nafsi Health, stated to Khaleej Times that self-help books are now a common choice for young individuals who are reluctant to pursue professional assistance. He stated that this group has a strong inclination to address their problems on their own, without feeling exposed by seeking therapy.
Excessively expensive
Although stigma is important, the expense of therapy is also a significant deterrent for young adults seeking professional help. In the UAE, where mental health services are still in the early stages of development, therapy can be too costly for a lot of people.
Hassan noted that therapy can be expensive, especially for young adults who are still building their careers. He also mentioned that self-help books provide a cheaper option for exploring mental health solutions.
Nevertheless, the restrictions of self-help books are clear. Self-improvement books have limitations in terms of how much they can help you. They offer general suggestions, but they do not have the personalized support that a professional therapist can provide. Hassan explained that without help from professionals, individuals could lack the necessary understanding and coping strategies for their specific situation.
However, the limitations of self-help books are evident. Self-help literature can only aid you to a certain extent. They provide broad recommendations, but lack the individualized assistance of a qualified therapist. Hassan mentioned that individuals might be lacking the required knowledge and coping mechanisms for their specific situation if they don't seek assistance from professionals.
Common misunderstandings regarding therapy
Another reason for the popularity of self-help books is the misunderstanding about therapy. A lot of young adults view therapy as a final option, only turning to it when their issues become too overwhelming.
Hassan stated that young adults are afraid that getting therapy indicates a problem with them. This misbelief is widespread in the Middle East, where there is frequently a stigma attached to mental health problems. People fear that seeking assistance will result in criticism or rejection.
The anxiety about receiving medication adds another layer of difficulty in the choice to pursue therapy. Tales of being prescribed too many medications and receiving incorrect diagnoses are common, causing many people to hesitate when considering seeking help from a therapist. Hassan explained that young adults opt for self-help books instead of therapy to delve into their mental health issues without the perceived risks.
Recognition of mental health care is increasing
In spite of these obstacles, there is an increasing acknowledgment of the significance of mental health care in the UAE. Services like Nafsi are striving to shift the narrative through providing online therapy services that are both affordable and accessible. These services offer a more private choice for individuals who may feel reluctant to receive assistance in person.
"We aim to close the divide between the demand for mental health assistance and the obstacles hindering individuals from accessing it," Hassan commented. Our objective is to increase the availability of therapy and diminish the negative perception linked to it.
Nafsi's therapy methods are in line with the overall movement towards incorporating technology into mental healthcare. Nafsi offers a cost-effective and convenient option with their online therapy sessions instead of the traditional in-person therapy sessions. This particular model is attractive to young adults who are already used to utilizing technology for communication and self-betterment.
The argument between self-help books and therapy does not apply universally. Abdullah Tekreeti, a 20-year-old resident of the UAE, states his inclination towards therapy despite its expensive nature. "He mentioned that he has attempted to read self-help books, but finds them to be too general." "Therapy provides a depth and individualization that books are unable to offer."
Diverse concepts and remedies
In the meantime, Mona Majdalawieh, a passionate reader and supporter of self-improvement literature, offers a contrasting point of view. She explained that self-help books have aided in improving her self-awareness and understanding of the world. Despite the possibility of therapy becoming cheaper, I would still opt for books as they enable me to delve into various ideas and solutions at my own speed.
Majdalawieh also recognizes the constraints of self-help books. She emphasized the importance of therapy for individuals struggling with serious mental health conditions. Books can provide advice, but they can't substitute the individualized help from a qualified therapist.
With the increasing focus on mental health in the UAE, it is evident that both self-help literature and therapy play important roles in the mental health sector. Although they provide a good initial resource, self-help books should not be viewed as a substitute for professional treatment.
Hassan stressed that it is acceptable to ask for assistance. It is important for people to take steps to prioritize their mental health, whether it be through seeking guidance from a book or a therapist.
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