Finding Time for Therapy Within a Busy Schedule
We know just how difficult it can be to find balance when you're working full-time, seeing loved ones, and trying to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without having time to care for yourself and your mind, busy schedules can feel even more draining. Here are some tips on how you might navigate prioritizing therapy within a tight schedule!
Find a quiet space: If you are able to find a quiet and private spot, your lunch break is a great time to schedule a phone or video therapy session.
Find a provider that fits with your availability: Many therapists cater their schedules to suit working professionals. Try finding a provider who offers morning and evening sessions or even weekend options.
If you feel comfortable, there are ways you can openly and honestly communicate with your boss about finding time once a week to meet with a therapist. This can be intimidating, but to ease the fear surrounding these conversations, here are some tips!
Communicate your needs: Mention your desire to find a healthy work-life balance.
Emphasize the benefits: If you feel safe opening up, emphasize how therapy can benefit the environment and employees of the workplace. Working to maintain mental stability can help increase productivity, decrease burnout/lethargy, and can help develop insight. Communication strategies and distress tolerance skills, etc. can help the workplace feel a little less stressed and more productive.
Non-disclosure: If you don’t feel comfortable discussing therapy with your employer, you can frame it as a “recurring medical appointment” each week. Under ADA privacy acts, you are entitled and protected to keep your medical history private so you are not forced to disclose anything you are not comfortable sharing.
Be cognizant of office routines: If you know the office gets particularly busy during a specific time of day, schedule your session during a time when you know you might have less obligations. This can help you maintain some privacy while not having to work during your session.
Block out your calendar: Communicate your availability with your colleagues by blocking your calendar with something as simple as “appointment” or “personal” or “unavailable.”
These conversations surrounding prioritizing mental health can be difficult. We know that it can be hard to make time for therapy with busy schedules and that scheduling therapy sessions can add even more stress. However, without a work-life balance, it can be hard to enjoy your job and get work done. Following these tips will help you find time for therapy around your schedule and openly mention it to your colleagues or bosses if you feel comfortable. We hope that you are able to use these tips to prioritize your mental health!
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