YC
Erin Frey on Therapy
@ Y Combinator
06/03/17
Takeaways
EF
Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
I started going to therapy when I realized that stress and anxiety were affecting my ability to do good work.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
I was waking up anxious every morning, thinking through the list of things I would not get done that day.
EF
Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
Therapy is a scientifically proven process that changes the way your brain works for the better.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
In therapy, you meet with a therapist to figure out a goal to work on together, even if you don't know what your goal is at first.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
I noticed that stress and anxiety were overwhelming me, preventing my true self from shining through.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
During therapy sessions, you learn how your brain works, your thought patterns, and how to navigate your emotions better.
EF
Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
Founders often deal with an incredible fear of failure, which can lead to negative emotions before important events like pitch meetings.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
With therapy, you can learn to stop negative thoughts before they start affecting your feelings and decisions.
EF
Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
Having a therapist provides a safe space to discuss problems that are difficult to share with co-founders or family, which is crucial for mental well-being.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
I felt a sense of relief knowing I was on a path to recovery and that I was taking steps to improve my mental health.
EF
Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
Therapy helps founders by teaching them to view challenges as exciting problems to solve rather than insurmountable obstacles.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
I wish I had started therapy earlier, as it can help navigate the predictable mental health challenges that come with being a founder.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
Stress, anxiety, and depression are common issues for founders due to the overwhelming uncertainty and pressure they face.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
We should view therapists as essential care providers, similar to how we see dentists and doctors, to ensure our mental health is prioritized.
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Erin Frey
06/03/17
@ Y Combinator
Investing in mental health is crucial for founders, as a healthy mind is their most important asset and contributes to their effectiveness as leaders.