The high cost of therapy and the persistent stigma surrounding mental health are driving many individuals to find comfort in self-help books and rely on untrustworthy internet sources rather than opting for conventional professional therapy. Nafsi Health, a certified online therapy platform, recently conducted a survey that highlighted stigma as the foremost obstacle to therapy. Approximately 87 percent of the respondents, which translates to nearly 9 out of 10, cited fear of judgment from family and society as the primary reason for avoiding therapy.
"Self-help books have gained popularity among young people who are reluctant to seek professional assistance," said Tayeb Hassan, co-founder and CEO of Nafsi Health, in an interview with Khaleej Times. "This demographic has a strong inclination to manage their issues independently, without the perceived weakness associated with seeking therapy," he continued. The prohibitive cost of therapy is another significant deterrent for young adults, especially in the UAE where mental health services are still in their developmental stages.
"Therapy can be expensive, particularly for young adults who are often still building their careers," Hassan explained, noting that self-help books offer a more economical alternative, enabling individuals to explore mental health solutions without financial strain. However, the limitations of self-help books are clear. "Self-help books can only provide general advice and lack the personalized guidance a trained therapist can offer. Without professional support, individuals may miss out on the deeper understanding and coping strategies tailored to their specific needs," Hassan pointed out.
Misconceptions about therapy also contribute to the popularity of self-help books. Many young adults view therapy as a last resort, to be sought only when their problems become overwhelming. "There's a fear among young adults that seeking therapy implies there's something wrong with them," Hassan stated. "This misconception is widespread in the Middle East, where mental health issues are often stigmatized. People fear that admitting they need help will result in judgment or exclusion." The fear of being prescribed medication further complicates the decision to seek therapy, with horror stories about overmedication and misdiagnosis circulating widely.
Despite these challenges, there is a growing recognition of the importance of mental health care in the UAE. Platforms like Nafsi are striving to change the narrative by offering affordable and accessible online therapy services. "We're attempting to bridge the gap between the need for mental health support and the barriers that prevent people from seeking it," Hassan added. "Our aim is to make therapy more accessible and reduce the stigma associated with it." Nafsi's approach to therapy aligns with the broader trend of integrating technology into mental health care, offering a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional face-to-face therapy.
The debate between self-help books and therapy is not universally applicable. Abdullah Tekreeti, a 20-year-old UAE resident, prefers therapy despite its cost. "I've tried reading self-help books, but they often feel too generic," he said. "Therapy offers a level of depth and personalization that books simply can't provide." Conversely, Mona Majdalawieh, an avid reader and advocate of self-help books, shares a different perspective. "Self-help books have helped me develop a better awareness of myself and the world around me," she explained. "Even if therapy were more affordable, I would still choose books because they allow me to explore different ideas and solutions at my own pace." However, Majdalawieh acknowledges the limitations of self-help books. "For those dealing with more severe mental health issues, therapy is crucial," she added. "Books can offer guidance, but they can't replace the personalized support of a trained therapist."
As mental health awareness continues to grow in the UAE, it’s becoming increasingly clear that both self-help books and therapy have their place in the mental health landscape. While self-help books offer an accessible starting point, they should not be seen as a replacement for professional care. "There's no shame in seeking help," Hassan emphasized. "Whether through a book or a therapist, what matters most is that people take action to care for their mental health."
