How to Ask for Help
Some people believe that asking for help demonstrates weakness and an inability to care for oneself. Nothing could be farther from the truth. In some cases, asking for help takes an incredible amount of strength. If you need help, it is important that you know how to ask for it.
- Center yourself. You are likely facing a difficult time in your life. Take a few minutes to relax and focus so that you can seek the help that you truly need. Begin by reminding yourself that nothing is permanent. Do something that will help you to relax, whether that be take a hot shower, a long bath or lay on the couch and read a book. Indulge yourself a bit. Get back to ground zero before you begin seeking help for your situation.
- Reach out to a friend. Pick up the phone and call a friend that you know you can count on. Most people have at least one friend in their life who is there in good times and in bad. Do not feel ashamed that you need their help and support at this time in your life. Reach out to them and let them know what is going on in your life. It will likely be a difficult call to make, but you will be glad that you did it. Sometimes all it takes is getting the problem off of your chest to make you feel better.
- Find a support group. No matter what situation or trouble you are facing, someone, somewhere has been through it before. Look for a support group that will help you through this difficult time. If you are working with a therapist or doctor, ask if they know of any support groups that you could join. You can also search online to find an Internet support group. You will likely find some new friends and assistance from an online support group.
- Call a crisis hotline. If circumstances are dire and you cannot locate a friend to help you, call the local crisis hotline. There are hotlines that cater to all different issues, whether it be drug abuse, substance abuse or domestic issues. If you need help, make the call.