AUTHOR=Chang Sherilyn , Sambasivam Rajeswari , Seow Esmond , Tan Geoffrey Chern-Yee , Lu Sharon Huixian , Assudani Hanita , Chong Siow Ann , Subramaniam Mythily , Vaingankar Janhavi Ajit 

TITLE=“We Are All Trying to Find a Way to Help Ourselves”: A Look at Self-Help Strategies Among Psychotherapy Clients

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Psychology

VOLUME=12

YEAR=2021

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.621085

DOI=10.3389/fpsyg.2021.621085

ISSN=1664-1078

ABSTRACT=<p><bold>Objective:</bold> This study examined self-help strategies engaged by psychotherapy clients and explored their views on such self-help approach.</p><p><bold>Methods:</bold> Secondary analysis of data from a qualitative research study was conducted. A total of 15 psychotherapy clients were recruited, and data were collected <italic>via</italic> semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of data was conducted using inductive approach to examine the content.</p><p><bold>Results:</bold> Three main themes revolving around self-help strategies were identified: (1) types of self-help strategies, (2) reasons for engaging in self-help activities, and (3) effectiveness of self-help strategies.</p><p><bold>Conclusion:</bold> The self-help approach to manage distress is common among psychotherapy clients. This study provided insights into understanding how and why clients use self-help strategies in their daily lives.</p>