Would you talk about your therapy experiences with a potential partner? While it may be the scene of nightmares for a lot of us, the openness of discussing therapy experiences on dates is a notable trend with no signs of slowing down. A recent survey highlights that many daters now seek partners who are willing to share their therapy journeys. But what is driving the trend and how open is too open when it comes to finding someone new?
The rise of therapy conversations
Discussing mental health, particularly therapy, was once considered taboo in social settings, let alone on dates. However, this has changed significantly. Recent years have witnessed a broader cultural acceptance of mental health care and its benefits. With many people now viewing therapy as a valuable tool for personal growth and relationship success.
But where does that leave you when it comes to dating?
While the trend indicates a growing appreciation for emotional intelligence and self-awareness in romantic relationships, it also helps strengthen the foundation of any romantic connections that you have.
Fostering openness and vulnerability
Sharing therapy experiences can create a foundation of trust and openness between you and your date. Not only does it allow partners to understand each other’s emotional landscapes better, but it also gives a clearer picture of your boundaries and why you may feel a certain way. While sharing can foster open communication between you both, be aware that oversharing can put people off. It’s much better to give small doses of information over time than use the date as another therapy session to offload everything.
Promoting mental health awareness
Normalising therapy discussion helps reduce the stigma around mental health and encourages both partners to prioritise their emotional wellbeing. Taking time for yourself to look after your physical and mental wellbeing is necessary in today’s fast-paced world. By setting these expectations from the beginning, you can ensure a healthier and more open relationship both with yourself and your potential partner.
Enhancing relationship quality
Couples who discuss their therapy journeys often navigate conflicts more effectively. They have each spent a lot of time working on themselves and as a result have learnt to open up to a stranger and communicate their feelings in a healthy way. They are more likely to develop healthy communication patterns from the start. Patterns that will in turn strengthen the foundations of the relationships and enable them to navigate and talk through even the most trying of situations together.
While there are some clear benefits to opening the channels when it comes to therapy discussions with a potential partner, knowing how and when to bring it up is key. If you’re new to this trend and wondering how to bring it up in a date context, here are some practical tips:
Choose the right moment
Timing is crucial. Find a relaxed and private setting to initiate the conversation. The first date is probably not the place to start, instead open the communication channels once you feel more comfortable with that person and are open to the prospect of a future commitment with them.
Be honest and respectful
Share your experiences sincerely and encourage your date to do the same but respect their boundaries. Whether they’ve been through therapy or not, not everyone is comfortable talking about their mental health. Don’t apply any pressure or push them to tell you more than they are willing to.
Focus on personal growth
Therapy happens when we are often at our most vulnerable. Rather than focus on the negative situations that led you there, highlight how therapy has helped you grow and improve as a person. Focus on the skills that it has taught you and what you have learnt about yourself.
Listen actively
Pay attention to your date’s reactions and be open to their perspective. Just as not everyone is open to talking about therapy, some people do not feel comfortable hearing about it. Take note of how your date is reacting and be careful not to share too much too soon. It’s better to give little bits of information over time than overwhelm them in one go. The right person will respect the value you place on your own mental wellbeing and share your values and emotional maturity.
The trend of discussing therapy on dates is not just a passing fad; it reflects a deeper shift towards valuing mental health and emotional honesty in relationships. As more people embrace this openness, the dating landscape will continue to evolve, fostering healthier and more meaningful connections. Whether you’re navigating the dating world on your own or with the help of a matchmaker, being transparent about your therapy experiences can pave the way for a fulfilling and supportive relationship.
If you’re single and looking to build a stronger, more authentic relationship with someone who shares your values, lifestyle and aspirations for the future, then get in touch with our team of expert matchmakers today.
