do you think people with mental illness always need therapy/someone licensed to talk to?

even if they have a support system and friends to talk to openly about their mental well-being?

i’ve always prided myself on being self aware of the struggles i face, and throughout periods of my life i’ve had a good support system to lean on about these things. but is it really ethical or sustainable to only talk to friends about your mental health?
i’m not sure how these discussions came across to friends in the past since i have memory issues, but i think that within recent times i haven’t trauma dumped onto others; the discussions were all willingly had. but i’m unsure if having that support system makes it right to avoid talking to a professional about my issues. i can be very stubborn when it comes to my mental health, and i’ve held the belief in the past that personally there’s nothing good that can come out of therapy. i know what is wrong with me, i’ve learned methods to help me, and i have people i trust to talk to. i don’t know if this is me being self aware or if my avoidance is rooted in wanting to enable my own mental suffering further.

ViciDraco · 41-45, M

I think there's a lot to be said for quantity and quality. Even in a willing exchange, if every interaction becomes mental support it can begin to wear on the relationship. But if the support moments are interleaved with fun/ positive moments as well, then it is part of the bond formed.

I think if you have a healthy support network with friends then therapy might not provide much. But if you are starting to strain relationships it might be better to channel effort into therapy.

I personally have that thought process often. I know what my problems are, due to being self-aware. I know how to research solutions and coping mechanisms. I'm not sure what therapy would be providing beyond those.