Cult of Wellness?
Is self improvement feeding anxiety?
It's a common misconception that therapists are immune to life's stresses simply because they are in the business of helping others. As a therapist, I can attest that I, too, experience stress and anxiety. I’m also no stranger to the internal demands of striving to be better, do better, and achieve more.
As a psychology graduate, I often hesitate to talk about my degree due to modesty. However, I feel it has given me valuable insights, especially regarding the proliferation of social media accounts promoting incorrect pop psychology and an almost dogmatic dedication to self-improvement. Don’t get me wrong; self-improvement is a significant aspect of counselling. We all aim to enhance our lives, achieve a clearer mind, and strive for happiness. But the pervasiveness of algorithm-driven content has made me wonder about its impact on people.
The Pitfalls of Constant Self-Improvement
The pressure to continually improve can lead to a cycle where striving for better turns into an obsession with needing to be better. When happiness and clarity of mind are constantly at the forefront of our thoughts, we may miss out on the present moment. This constant future focus can lead to anxiety, as fear often stands for "false evidence appearing real." The fear of not achieving anything significant can indeed trigger anxiety.
Another concern I have is the spread of misinformation. Quotes often attributed to Freud or other psychologist are sometimes inaccurate, and terms like "narcissistic traits" are frequently misused by those without the proper credentials.
Balancing Social Media with Reliable Information
If you’re experiencing increased anxiety, it’s essential to recognize that this may be normal, but it could also stem from the relentless pursuit of self-improvement and future-focused thinking. I allude to this in my article on Radical Acceptance here.
Professional counselling can help break this cycle. I do however acknowledge the barriers some face in accessing help and understand that feeling connected through social media can be invaluable.
Recommended Reads for Reliable Psychology
To balance the influence of social media, I suggest some accessible and reliable books on psychology as an alternative to endless scrolling. These resources provide accurate information and can help you manage stress and anxiety effectively:
"The Happiness Trap" by Russ Harris
"Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy" by David D. Burns
"Mind Over Mood" by Dennis Greenberger and Christine A. Padesky
Remember, seeking professional counselling is a proactive step toward managing your mental health and well-being. It’s okay to strive for improvement, but it's also crucial to find balance and live in the present moment
