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How to Ask for Help

Updated: Feb 5, 2022





Therapists want people to feel comfortable asking for help. Helping people is--or at least should be--the reason we’re in the business. One thing I’ve realized, however, is asking for help is something people may need assistance with. People have a lot of reasons they don’t ask for help. Barriers for help-seeking include: fear, resistance to change, limited finances, embarrassment, gender expectations, failed attempts in the past, and more. If you are considering asking for help, but aren’t sure how, keep reading to get some ideas on where to start.


Get inspired. Consider your priorities for your life. Are you reaching your goals? Are you managing your priorities in the way and with the resources and attitude you are pleased about? If not, maybe it’s time for a change. Maybe you’re dissatisfied with the way things are, or you want to try something new. Think about how your attitude and behaviors are impacting other aspects of your life. This may provide the motivation you need.


Speak up. You don’t have to say the words, “I need help”. Instead you may be thinking, “I’m unhappy with the way my life is right now,” or, “I know I should feel better, I just don’t know what to do about it.” The first call you make doesn’t have to be to a therapy office. Start small. Build confidence in yourself to take the first step towards reaching out for help. Have an honest conversation with yourself. Then, try telling someone else that you want a change. Friends and family who are involved in your life may have already encouraged you to seek help with some aspect of your life. Confiding in them is a great place to start.


Make a move. Call, email, facebook messenger--it doesn't matter. The truth is, no one can do the work for you. If you’re uneasy, nervous, shy or hesitant, know these are all perfectly normal emotions to have. Don’t feel burdened to figure out exactly what is wrong, why the symptoms started, or a plan to fix it. Therapy is the place where we can work together to figure out all of these things together.


Roy T. Bennet said, “Do not let the memories of your past limit the potential of your future. There are no limits to what you can achieve on your journey through life, except in your mind.” You don’t have to go through the struggles of life alone. Therapy can help you build skills to improve your mood, boundaries, communication, lifestyle and behaviors. If you feel like therapy is something you’re considering, reach out.



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