There are moments in life when our experiences push us so far beyond our personal narratives that they no longer fit within the framework of what we know. We find ourselves outside the edges of our understanding, standing in uncharted emotional and psychological territory. In those moments, we may try to make sense of what we feel, but the truth is, our internal tools—our reasoning, our resilience, our perspective—may not be enough. And that’s okay.
Think about climbing Mt. Rainier. You could try to summit on your own, relying on your physical strength, instincts, and whatever knowledge you’ve gathered. But the mountain is unpredictable, and the terrain is unforgiving. Without experience, you may not recognize the warning signs of an impending avalanche, the safest route across a crevasse field, or how to manage your oxygen levels at altitude. That’s why climbers hire guides—experienced professionals who understand the landscape, anticipate the dangers, and provide the right tools and strategies to get you safely to the summit and back down again.
The same is true when navigating mental and emotional struggles. If you’ve been through something traumatic, if you feel lost in an experience too vast to process alone, seeking professional help is like hiring a guide for a dangerous climb. It doesn’t mean you’re weak. It doesn’t mean you’re incapable. It means you recognize the complexity of the journey ahead and want to give yourself the best chance to make it through safely.
Processing extreme experiences—whether it’s loss, trauma, fear, or prolonged stress—requires more than just pushing forward and hoping time will heal the wounds. It demands a deeper understanding, new tools, and sometimes guidance from those who have dedicated their lives to helping others through these very struggles.
Your mind, your emotions, your sense of self—these things deserve the same care and preparation as any high-stakes expedition. If you find yourself outside your narrative, lost in an experience that doesn’t fit into what you know, seeking professional help isn’t giving up. It’s choosing to climb wisely, to navigate with experience, and to ensure you make it through the journey stronger than before.
Photo by Luca Calderone
