Perpetual Therapy

I’m pretty on the level and have been for the past decade. My medications are solid and I don’t have any side effects from them. I’ve worked through many of my feelings and issues from my past. For many individuals, once they break through the issue which brought them to therapy they stop seeing their therapist.
 
Yet, I find it important to continue therapy. Why? As someone who lives with a persistent mental health issue (bipolar disorder type II) I know it’s something I will always need to be cognizant of. While I am aware of the steps to take to keep myself in a good state mentally, I’m not perfect. In the past ten years there were times when I found myself depressed and not communicating my needs.
 
It’s because I know I have occasional slips that I see a therapist, usually every two to three weeks. Should I need anyone to speak with if an emergency comes up, I already have a trained professional who knows me and my history.
 
Also, life changes, as do the issues we’re trying to address. The things that bothered me at 25 years old aren’t like what I deal with at 40. But it’s been helpful to have someone to at least listen to what I’m going through and who can also give me some feedback. Having the security of a therapist with whom you can see and with whom you have a relationship is helpful should a mental health emergency arise. Even though I don’t always have much to talk about at my sessions, I still think it’s important I continue to see my therapist in case the need should arise.
 
Our lives are all different. Yet, if you’re seeing a therapist but not dealing with an acute mental health issue, keep seeing them (assuming you like them and cost isn’t an issue). If it doesn’t seem as necessary, set up appointments for every two or three weeks so you don’t lose touch. It can be helpful to have that lifeline should issues arise in your life.