For many of us, campaigns like Mental Health Awareness Week can stir up some uncomfortable emotions. Perhaps it’s pain about our own mental health struggles in the past or present, or maybe it’s a reminder about our loved ones who are currently struggling.
Whatever the reason, it’s normal to feel like you just need to take a moment to reflect and process your feelings this week.
Not quite sure how to do that?
Let us introduce you Natasha Page: qualified counsellor and founder of My Little Therapy Box.
Natasha’s Story
In her early 20s, Natasha found herself struggling to get through an intense period of low mood, depression, and sadness. Often keeping these feelings inside, she quickly became overwhelmed, she struggled to open up to others, and her internal thoughts began to become increasingly self-critical and negative.
She knew something had to change…
But what? And where should she start?
Her dad recommended counselling, and so she gave it a try.
In an article with Happiful, Natasha detailed her very first counselling session:
“I didn’t have a clue what counselling was, to be honest, or how it could help me. But in my despair, I thought it was worth a try. I remember my first session very clearly; I sat and cried, and started to tell the therapist how I was feeling. He really helped me feel listened to and understood.”
Over time, these counselling sessions not only helped Natasha overcome this dark period of depression, but they inspired her to become a counsellor herself. This new career path ultimately led to the creation of her business, My Little Therapy Box.
About My Little Therapy Box
After spending numerous hours working with clients, Natasha recognized that there is value in helping people learn how to explore their emotions on their own terms, in a way that is comfortable for them.
That’s why she created My Little Therapy Box, which is simply a pack of 40 individually designed emotion cards with instructions and prompts. These cards are not intended to replace counselling or therapy, but rather are a tool to help individuals explore their emotions, gain clarity about their feelings, and express themselves productively.
So if you do find yourself struggling to cope with the themes of Mental Health Awareness Week but you’re not comfortable with reaching out to a therapist – we encourage you to give My Little Therapy Box a try!
You can check it out and make a purchase on the My Little Therapy Box website here.
An Interview with Natasha Page
We had the pleasure of catching up with Natasha just before Mental Health Awareness Week! Here are some of her favourite self-help tools, techniques, and mental health insights.
What self-help tools do you use in your personal life to maintain good mental health?
“One of the most effective things I do is keep active. I love to exercise and work out several times a week at the gym or doing a workout at home. Doing meditations on my phone, relaxation, or mindfulness practices. I love to educate myself and learn new things. I always have a podcast or audiobook on the go.”
What advice would you give to someone who is considering therapy for themself or someone they love?
“To simply give it a try, many people don’t fully understand the benefits of what they can get from counselling until they do it. Make sure you find a therapist you feel comfortable with, don’t expect it to be a quick fix some issues can take longer to work through than others, but hopefully you will reap the benefits of counselling when you start to experience having that space to talk.”
In your experience, what is the best way to support close friends and relatives who are struggling?
“Letting them know you are there for them if they need to talk. Acknowledging that you may not always be the best person and helping to signpost them to other resources or other forms of support such as counselling or visiting their GP. Being nonjudgemental and not making it about yourself and your feelings or experiences.”
One last question… If you could go back in time, what’s one piece of advice that you would give to your teenage self?
“To aim high and to not place limitations on what I can achieve.”
What is the best way for our readers to get in touch with you or follow your journey?
The best way to stay connected with me is through social media!
- Facebook / mylittletherapybox
- Instagram / my_little_therapy_box_
- Twitter / @mylittletherapy
- LinkedIn / Natasha Page
Further Resources on Counselling and Self-Help
If you found this article helpful, check out these additional resources on counselling, finding a counsellor, and how to help yourself overcome certain mental health challenges.
- The Lily-Jo Project’s mental health self-help resource
- The Lily-Jo Project’s dedicated self-care resource
About the Author: Shelby Hale
Shelby has been with The Lily-Jo Project since October of 2018, serving as the platform’s Content and Communications Manager. Having lived in four different countries throughout her young adulthood, Shelby is passionate about the positive impact new experiences can have on mental health.
When she’s not working with The Lily-Jo Project, she supports other projects through her creative agency, Hale Marketing and Communications. If you’d like to stay updated with Shelby’s story, you can find her on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
