As a therapist I am aware that talking about and confronting one’s problems such as depression, grief, anger, and anxiety can be very difficult. Coming forth and asking for help is the first step in the counseling process. But asking for help is the most difficult part of the treatment process for many, including myself.
Besides, no one wants to be viewed as weak or vulnerable. Is asking for help a negative or a weak thing? Some compare being helpless with being weak, but asking for help takes self-awareness and courage. Asking for help isn’t a burden nor a sign of weakness but a sign of humanness. I admire all of my clients and others that have the courage to come into counseling and ask for help.
Everyone has times in their lives when they require help from others. Most individuals will not share their thoughts and feelings with those they trust because again they do not want to appear weak. Seeking and trusting a professional enough to share your innermost thoughts about yourself and the world around you is a very scary thing to do, but that’s where the healing process begins. Most people do not know all there is to know or have the information to handle their issues skillfully. Therefore, it makes sense that we would have to ask a professional for help at some point. Sometimes the most effective way to continue is to focus efforts where they have the most important issues.
What can you gain by asking for help?
You have the ability to move on with life. Instead of remaining stuck in the same place with the same issues, you will know how to move on. When a person is stuck, they may feel some stress. Not trusting that you could ask for help may start symptoms of anxiety. That is, until you have asked for help and feel the relief of finding out what you needed to know.
You have the opportunity trust to and work with another person. If you’ve been tasked with something to do independently, it’s best to try to do it on your own. But seeking advice or assistance gives someone the opportunity to share with you.
You have the opportunity to learn about yourself. Participate in the process and to who is willing to help and what they are willing to do for you. Really listen to approaches being described to you.
Asking for help doesn’t undervalue a person in any way. It can enable you to advance, connect you meaningfully with others, strengthen your efficiency and ability to do things with less anxiety, and better prepare you for your next challenge. Therapy is a place to remove the emotional mask. With practice, things become less painful and you can begin to feel the worthiness that is yours.
