Most Russians prefer to deal with anxiety without the help of psychologists

Most Russians try to deal with stress and anxiety on their own by resorting to non—standard methods, from communicating with neural networks to astrological forecasts. Such data was obtained in a joint study of the psychological assistance service "Clear" and the HeadHunter recruitment platform. Izvestia got acquainted with the results on June 10.

According to the survey results, 80% of respondents prefer to cope with psychological difficulties alone, using sports, hobbies, food or smoking. Only 10% seek professional help, while 8% discuss their problems with artificial intelligence (AI), 3% check their horoscopes, and 1% consult with tarologists.

"Many people consider alternative methods as an affordable way to distract themselves, but there are also those who seriously believe that social media algorithms or astrological charts understand them better than humans," the authors of the study note.

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This trend is especially noticeable among young people: 15% of respondents aged 18-24 admitted that they prefer to discuss stress with AI.

In addition, it turned out that women are more likely than men to positively evaluate psychotherapy (50% versus 32%), but they are the ones who actively turn to non-traditional methods. 13% of the women surveyed consult astrologers or neural networks when they have difficulties at work, and 12% in their personal lives.

The main barrier to contacting a psychologist remains the cost of services, as indicated by 39% of respondents. Other reasons include difficulties in choosing a specialist (23%) and distrust of outsiders (16%).

"Despite the fact that there are many alternative options for self—regulation, we are witnessing a general trend — namely, an increase in interest in psychotherapy," emphasizes Maria Ignatieva, a psychotherapist at the Yasno service.

According to her, in comparison with technological tools and other methods of working with your feelings, sessions with a specialist may seem like a costly and difficult way to solve a problem. However, the specialist claims that it is purposeful work with a qualified psychologist that helps to recognize and work through internal conflicts and cope with emotional difficulties.

Psychologist Tatiana Smirnova told Izvestia on May 29 that a properly organized work and rest regime would help to avoid burnout in the summer. She advised spending active weekends, using lunch breaks for walks, and starting the morning with physical activity in the fresh air.