Stuck in Late Adolescence? How Psychotherapy Can Unlock Your True Growth Potential

Damien’s heart pounded as if he had stepped not onto an awards stage but onto the set of Dancing on a Crocodile Pit. The spotlights’ glare stung his eyes, stirring up childhood memories of how even the smallest mistake once felt like the end of the world. To the public, he looked like the Perfect Guy V2.0, with multiple honors and endless attention, yet inside he felt like an actor forced to play a role someone else had written.

Critical Moment: How Bottling Up Emotions Leads to Burnout
Damien flashed a bright smile in a white suit on social media, celebrating his latest achievements and gathering countless likes. Yet every evening, when he was finally alone, he asked himself in utter disbelief: Where did the joy go? His parents’ constant push to climb even higher echoed endlessly, like background music in a supermarket that slowly drives you out of your mind. The relentless chase for outside approval lost its playful sheen and revealed a raw, aching void.

Turning point: the moment you recognize that your inner freedom is being stifled
In the midst of a frantic workday, Damien grew so unsettled he could hardly catch his breath. Slumped inside a nearly deserted late-night cafe under the flickering Shawarma-24 sign, he suddenly recalled how he used to be: a quiet, dreamy child who truly believed the Moon was made of cheese. Now that childlike spark felt as though it had no right to exist, smothered beneath countless outside expectations.

Solution: Seeing a psychotherapist and taking the first steps back to your true self
In his family, a psychotherapist visit was treated like entering a strange troll dimension. Still, once Damien conquered his fear of judgment, he resolved to take that important step.
• How to choose a therapist. He took the time to read through reviews, explored various approaches such as Gestalt therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, and ultimately went with the one who inspired a deep sense of trust.
• How the first session usually goes. The therapist will often invite you to share a little about yourself, clarify your goals, and talk through your expectations. There’s no need to prepare a grand speech; the most important part is being authentic with yourself and the therapist.
• How to prepare for the session. Damien took out a notebook and jotted down a few questions, worries, and key points he wanted to discuss, making sure he wouldn’t overlook anything important once emotions came into play.

With each session, he realized more and more how much energy went into trying to be a 'handsome hero with no weaknesses.' The 'be successful or die' mentality frayed his nerves, forcing him to recognize his fears and disappointments. By doing so, he finally listened to that inner voice that had long been asking for the freedom to be himself.


Little by little, Damien let down the flawless façade he had clung to and felt an immense wave of relief. He realized that true adulthood is about showing himself kindness rather than fearing every misstep. Each conversation with his therapist opened a new door to his authentic self—that curious child who had simply been longing for genuine love.
Over time, the relentless chase for grand achievements stopped defining Damien’s life. He learned to notice each small victory, accept his mistakes, and find joy in discovering new possibilities. Today, he values every moment, spends time with friends, and freely shares his genuine feelings on social media without worrying about being less than perfect.

How does Damien incorporate his new mindset and abilities into his day-to-day life?
• At work, he deliberately steered clear of unhealthy perfectionism. Before starting challenging tasks, he paused to remind himself that a minor mistake doesn’t spell disaster.
• In his relationships, he opened up more about his worries and fears with those closest to him. This heartfelt sharing drew him nearer to family and friends, easing his sense of loneliness.
• On social media. He stopped trying to appear flawless and felt comfortable sharing both his successes and occasional fears or mistakes, never worrying about losing anyone's approval

• On social media, he let go of the need to appear flawless. He felt free to share not only his successes but also moments of doubt or mistakes, never worrying about losing anyone’s support.
• Reach out to a professional whenever you sense you're at a dead end. Even a handful of sessions with a psychologist or therapist can shed light on your true needs and uncover the deeper roots of any inner struggles.
• If money is tight, look for free or discounted options, online support groups, or helplines. Many cities and organizations offer these services to anyone who needs them.
• Try out accessible relaxation techniques. One helpful approach is the 4-7-8 method: inhale for four seconds, hold your breath for seven seconds, and exhale for eight seconds. A few rounds of this exercise can quickly ease tension.
• Keep a journal with specific, reflective questions. For example, ask yourself what brought you joy today or where you felt discomfort and why. Try to respond without self-criticism—think of it as a free-flowing way to explore your emotions.
• Experiment with meditative or body-based practices. You might explore a body scan by gradually tuning in to each sensation from head to toe, or treat yourself to a gentle neck and shoulder massage.
• Remember your child self. Recall the pastimes that once captivated you, that filled you with excitement or wonder. Nurturing that spark helps you stay deeply connected to who you are.

Potential Objections and Mindful Solutions
• No time for journaling Try a quick approach: jot down a single sentence in the morning and another in the evening. It takes less than a minute each day.
• No money for therapy? Look into free consultations at university psychology departments, hotlines, or self-help groups on social networks. There are also online platforms that offer more affordable packages for those on a tight budget.
• Prolonged recurrences of anxious thoughts. Damien continues to meet with his therapist from time to time (for example, once a month) to stay connected to himself and respond early to any emerging worries.

• Damien sometimes faces renewed waves of anxious thoughts. He meets with his therapist periodically (about once a month) to remain grounded and address any concerns before they grow.

Summary: The courage to be yourself is the greatest reward
Damien’s story reveals how risky it can be to hand over control of your life to other people’s expectations. Whenever you feel constant pressure and begin losing your sense of joy, it may be time to reach out for support and remember who you truly are. Brief breathing exercises, regular journaling, or even a single conversation with a professional can serve as the first step toward reconnecting with your authentic self. Damien himself sometimes faces renewed waves of anxious thoughts, so he sees his therapist once a month to stay centered and address any concerns before they grow. Ultimately, finding the courage to live as your genuine self is the greatest reward.
Being yourself is the most meaningful accomplishment in daily life; no number of likes can replace it. Take that step now by listening to your inner voice, finding the right support, and sharing your experiences with others. In the end, the courage to be genuine always outweighs anyone else’s expectations.