Safe spaces have a wide definition—from specific rooms in schools and college campuses designated as an area free from conflict and criticism to a general space where an individual can feel safe, both physically and emotionally. It’s a place where you can be yourself without having to worry about getting judged.
In a world that’s filled with stigma and judgment at every corner, having a physical or virtual place where you’re able to open up and get help is essential for your mental health. Here’s why having safe spaces is important in our daily lives:
You can be genuine
There are times where we must hide behind a mask in order to blend in or cater to the satisfaction of the people around us. You might be hiding your true opinions or values or feeling tired of holding in your emotions that you’re afraid will scare people off. Having a space where you can unapologetically be yourself is a powerful experience. Feeling loved and accepted is a human right while feeling afraid of expressing yourself can hold you back from processing your emotions and putting in effort for positive change.
Discover yourself
Keeping your guard up all the time can be exhausting and rather emotionally taxing. One of the main prerequisites for self-actualization is the ability to be comfortable enough to let your inner self shine. However, you can’t be comfortable with yourself if you never really got the chance to discover yourself in a safe and healthy environment. A safe space is essential for going over your thoughts and feelings throughout the day and processing them to regulate your mental health.
Build honest emotional connections
Being vulnerable regarding experiences, new people, and uncertainties can be scary, especially if you’re not used to such things. However, getting vulnerable and opening-up is an essential part of your mental health journey. Communicating about your fears, desires, and past to others in a safe space without getting judged can help you feel more connected and less alone in your struggles. The same goes for hearing other people’s stories—you’ll feel trusted and wanted.
Receive input
Safe spaces allow for unique experiences—you can speak about your triumphs, fears, and everything in between in a quiet space and get honest advice or an expression of empathy from your listeners. Safe spaces are places of understanding and learning—a space to feel supported by your peers and develop a deeper sense of self. You can even get valuable feedback that can help start-up an insightful discussion and lead to growth!
Find a safe space today
Stem Wellness is a therapy institute that provides clients with safe spaces to comfortably open up and talk about their feelings in order to get guidance and compassion from our professional mental health counselors. Our services include individual counseling, family therapy, and marriage or relationship counseling in New Jersey.
Contact us to book an appointment today.