How to Stop Worrying: Try Talking to a Stranger

Ever notice how it’s sometimes easier to talk to a stranger about your problems than those closest to you? It’s counterintuitive, of course, but it’s true. When we share something that is going on in our lives with someone we don’t know, we don’t have to worry about how they might judge us or how the relationship might be negatively impacted by our confessions. There’s also less fear of rejection because the connection is temporary, so it feels like there’s less at stake.

Strangers also offer a fresh perspective. They don’t carry preconceived ideas about us or our specific situations, which can make it easier to be open and honest in our conversation. You might feel that you can speak freely without the burden of expectations or complicated and biased history when you don’t know the person on the other side of the conversation.

There is a certain freedom in knowing that you can share something without worrying about it coming up in future conversations. There’s no past or shared context. There is no expectation or fear of manipulation. These conversations with random strangers allow us to speak freely, without concern about this conversation or our next interaction.

I’m not advocating that you unload your worries onto an online message board for all the world to see. Nor am I encouraging you to corner that friendly-looking lady at the coffee shop. But I am encouraging you to seek this type of emotional release with a professional Christian therapist.

With a therapist, you can express the internal pressure that sometimes comes with talking to close family and friends without the fear of bias, retaliation, or your biggest fear being discussed at the next family dinner. What’s great about this type of “stranger” is that they have tools to help you manage your anxiety and can help you work through the negative thoughts that fuel your worry.

Ideally, we would all have a close network of trusted friends and family that we could turn to in our time of need and worry; loyal confidants that didn’t spread gossip or hand out judgment. But most people do not have an ally they wholeheartedly trust with their innermost concerns and darkest secrets. And it is for this very reason that your therapist, who may start out as a stranger, can become a trusted part of your journey and your biggest advocate.

Talking to a therapist may feel intimidating at first, just like speaking to any stranger. But remember, they are there to help you without judgment. Start by being honest about your discomfort. It’s okay to be nervous. You don’t have to dive into everything all at once. Just begin with what feels most pressing or overwhelming.

Therapists are trained to guide conversations, so they will help you explore what’s going on in your life and allow you to unpack your thoughts at your own pace. You can also share what you’re hoping to get out of your therapy sessions whether it’s managing your anxiety, working through grief, or simply finding a place to be heard.

God has given us the gift of professionals who can help guide us through our struggles, offer wisdom and comfort, and give us tools to manage our challenges. You don’t have to carry your burdens alone. God is always there, and He is no stranger to you or your problems. Seeking help from a therapist can be part of His amazing plan for healing and wholeness in your life. If talking to a therapist about your worry is the help you need, contact our office today.