One of the easiest ways to become more resilient is by seeking help from friends and family during tough times. Everyone has natural rights that promote cooperation in society— including the right to seek help from others when needed. Under normal circumstances, seeking help would be viewed as a good thing as it allows us to bounce back from difficulties easily. However, this mindset changes when we have mental health issues as seeking help encourages us to seek treatment instead of bouncing back naturally. This approach isn’t healthy for anyone and leads us astray at times— so why do we do this?
The answer lies in the fact that we view seeking help as a sign of weakness rather than strength. Having a problem doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human! We naturally look towards our community when someone needs help as we want them to bounce back easily rather than seek treatment first. The only way we can do that is by being sympathetic towards them when they need us instead of looking away or giving unsound advice like most are inclined too! Failing that approach encourages people with problems to use shady tactics such as hiding their issues or lying about their issues in order to get what they want from loved ones! This approach makes us no better than scoundrels because we encourage dishonesty over transparency whenever possible— but is this really any better?
The alternative approach of looking towards friends, family, and the community for support actually promotes better outcomes for anyone struggling with mental health issues at first glance! Most will feel comforted knowing someone will listen if they need them or know where they can go for treatment if they have one.
So how can you ask?
- DEFINE YOUR GOAL: Why do you want to speak to someone. To get help? Or to just unburden? This will determine what expectations to have and who you choose to speak to.
- BEGIN WITH WHO IS MOST COMFORTABLE: Let’s face it, it can be difficult opening up to everybody during difficult times for fear of being judged or scorned. So make sure to start with someone with which you are comfortable enough to share. Could be a family member or a trusted ally.
- BE AS OPEN AS YOU CAN: This is why you have to choose someone with whom you are comfortable around, so you can feel free to be as open as you should.