Paheja Siririka
Through trauma and in the absence of an opportunity to talk to loved ones about soul-destroying issues, it is advisable to seek therapy, as it provides one with the chance to explore and express thoughts and feelings without being judged.
This is exactly what Shiwomwenyo Amashili did when she opted to seek professional help while suffering from severe depression. “For about eight years now, I have been suffering from severe depression – and only at the age of 19 was it an urgent issue when suicidal thoughts turned into actions,” shared the Windhoek Vocational Training Centre student.
She shared her journey of healing and the importance of seeking therapy during the opening of NeuroBloom Psychology Practice in the capital recently.
“Being diagnosed with mood disorders such as anxiety and depression never really shocked me. However, what shocked me is where therapy got me today,” said Amashili.
“Although I was molested at the age of 13, I was introduced to therapy after the passing of our father; not because my parents were too ignorant, but because I was too scared to tell them.”
Amashili said therapy is instrumental in the healing process, as it allows her to share her pain and fear, and enabled her to open up.
“Only after many sessions did I finally speak and released every pain and fear.”
Amashili added: “Therapy isn’t just a word but therapy is peace. A place of safety with no judgmental opinions. The therapy itself should and must be described uniquely and separately because if it wasn’t for it, I don’t think I will be standing here nor will most of us be on earth”.
The soft-spoken Amashili describes therapy as “finding peace and recovery through sharing”. “Therapy is the safest haven for those who have lost hope and those who think nothing is wrong with them – finding the strength to go out there and face the reality of the world, which is pain.”
She admitted that her journey with therapy hasn’t been easy, saying “It’s not something that can be dived in with no fear, but it’s something that has to be completed until a purpose to life is found”.
“The journey taught me to speak up when I am not well, to identify and honour both good and bad days, knowing that I am not alone, finding strength in myself and those who fight with the same issues,” said Amashili.
– psiririka@nepc.com.na