Life can be challenging often on a day to day basis. It can be difficult to find ways to cope with it all. You may struggle to reach out for help from family or friends, believing you should figure it out on your own. Or maybe its really a struggle to find the courage to reach out for help from anyone. Here are some common reasons people struggle to reach out for help (and maybe you can relate):
- “I don’t want to add to their stress.”
- “They have enough going on already.”
- “I should be able to figure this out by myself”
- “I don’t want to be a burden”
These ways of thinking are incredibly common, but it can also leave you isolated when you need support the most. Carrying the weight of all your concerns and worries by yourself can weigh you down. It can take its toll on your mental, physical and emotional health. Often it can make mental health issues worse over time.
Why Reaching Out Matters
Humans are wired for connection. Sharing your struggles with trusted people—whether a friend, family member, therapist, or support group—lightens the load and reminds you that you don’t have to face challenges alone. Research consistently shows that strong social support improves emotional well-being, reduces stress, and even has physical health benefits.
Challenging the “Burden” Story
The idea that you’re a burden often comes from old patterns or beliefs that tell you your needs aren’t as important as others’. The truth is: reaching out actually deepens relationships. People who care about you often want to help, but they may not know how unless you let them in. Think about when a friend reached out to you and you jumped in to help them,. Did you feel they were a burden or did you offer support and kindness? Remember that your friends and family also want to be there for you and offer support.
Simple Ways to Reach Out
- Reach out to a friend who you feel is most approachable: this can help the process feel a little more comfortable and ease your way in.
- Start Small: Share a small struggle instead of waiting until everything feels overwhelming. This can start to feel less intimidating over time.
- Be Honest: A simple, “I’m having a rough day—could we talk?” is enough. Sometimes it can help even to text a friend and ask “do you have a minute?” If talking on the phone is stressful maybe consider opening up over text messages.
- Professional Support: If you are still carrying a lot on your own and having difficulty reaching out to frieds or family Therapy can help. WE can work together to find what is getting in the way and help you discover a path to connecting more with others. Therapy intensives are another option to help give more tie processing through a structured, safe space to work through challenges without feeling like you’re “too much.”
You don’t have to carry everything by yourself. Asking for help is not a weakness—it’s one of the bravest steps you can take toward healing and growth. Ready for your FREE 20 minute consultation? There is never any obligation reach out today at pathtohopec@hushmail.com.
