Sometimes it can be really tough to reach out for the help you need.  You may tell yourself things like, “I should be able to handle things on my own,” or “Be strong, you don’t need anyone’s help”.  For many, taking steps to reach out for help can take monumental effort!  Society promotes a “myth” of self-sufficiency, a belief system that deters people from asking for help when they need it.  Further complicating things is the notion of worthiness.  Some people have a hard time seeking and asking for help because they believe, at some core level, that they don’t deserve it.  With society telling us we don’t need it and our insides telling us we’re not worth it, it’s no wonder people struggle with reaching out.  The truth is that everyone needs someone to share their burdens with–someone who understands–it’s part of being human.

One way of being good to ourselves, is to ask, “what can I do right this moment to take care of myself”?  Sharing the burden of our deepest thoughts, fears, and emotions can provide real relief.  Just as suffering alone in silence tends to make things worse, pain shared is pain lessened.  Everyone has a need to be heard and understood.  What thoughts or beliefs are getting in the way of your asking for and receiving help?

Many people struggle with the idea of seeking counseling or therapy.  “Does it mean something’s wrong with me?”  or “Will I be judged?”  These are real concerns, and what I’ve found is that generally once a person reaches out for help, makes that first appointment, they feel better immediately.  Once they enter into therapy and experience a safe and supportive, non-judgmental therapeutic dialog–they are so glad they came.

So, think about it–what are the things holding you back from asking for help when you need it?  Perhaps you have questions and you’re wondering what therapy is like. Take a look at my Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy page.