Does therapy help people to function better in live? Do they get happier?

Question

Is there any proove that psycho therapy gives statistical relevant results in functioning and happyness of people who are treated?

Answer 1

I think it depends entirely on the individual. If somebody has been profoundly traumatised by a dreadful event or series of incidences in their life, possibly. For me, an important part of life is formulating your own solutions and finding the strength from within to overcome problems and tragedies. I also serious doubt the motives of some "therapists", who are more concerned with making "A Nice Living" as Mel Brooks observed in "High Anxiety."

Answer 2

There is evidence to suggest that cognitive-behavioural therapy is effective for depression and anxiety disorders, however finding empirical support for the other therapies can be very difficult. The problem is that 'happiness' is very subjective and so very difficult to measure. I like to think that my clients come back to me each week, not because they like giving me money, but because they feel they are achieving something which they consider to be both beneficial and valuable, and yes, sometimes they do go away a little happier.

Answer 3

There are clear studies that show that psychotherapy is helpful to improve the functioning of people's lives. These are called 'efficacy studies' and cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, shows great results working with mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, as well as working on ending smoking and other substance abuse issues. Other forms of therapy are also useful--behavior therapy with kids and the mentally handicapped is very beneficial, and is also great with substance abuse problems. For people to get happier, they need a mindset to allow happiness to enter--when they're depressed, they close themselves off to this; therapy helps them open themselves up to having positive experiences so they can help themselves be happier.

Answer 4

You can not measure it statistically, you just have to go on individual accounts. I had it and got rid of my low self esteem, then started the confidence to do stuff and get a job. It was a very hard journey as I had to look at myself, but I am soooooooooo glad I did it. I know it does not work for everyone though.

Answer 5

I think you are either a happy person or you are not. Therapy can't "make" you happy, it can assist you to deal with problems in manners that make life easier, but if you choose to be unhappy, the therapy isn't going to be a magic fix

Answer 6

Absolutely , Anytime we put a problem out on the table it loses
it's strength . Then after we have cut it down to size it is much easier to deal with . I know nothing about statistics however I do know 1st hand .

Answer 7

I think it depends how much someone wants to change. People sometimes seek therapy to just point blame at someone else. They don't want to examine themselves. If you are sick of your patterns then therapy can be very useful . If you just want the therapist to agree with you then you will stay the same.

This site has some articles relevant:

http://www.mental-health-insights.com/chronic-depression/2006/04/chronic-depression-lakme-on-my-lips.html

Meditator

Answer 8

Very true therapy improves once lives. Not only that, it enhance your self esteem to become a more better person in life.

Answer 9

I use this service and it helps me manage life a bit better, success depends on participation, the ability of the therapist and the ability to believe in its uses

Answer 10

It can. It helps you identify your own problems and deal with them. It's useful for individuals, families and couples. Some individuals benefit from supporting medication as well - just to take the edge of their tension/stress.