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ASKING FOR HELP AND ACCEPTING IT: THE STRONGEST FORM OF SELF-CARE

Teri Karjala • Jan 04, 2023

The strongest people we know are able to ask for help. They are also able to accept help when it’s offered.

We hear the words “self-care” and our mind often goes to a manicure, doing yoga, or getting a massage. All these are wonderful options for promoting calm and good health.

However, one of the least discussed, and essential forms of self-care, is asking for help. And accepting help. 

WHY IS IT HARD TO ASK FOR HELP?

The United States is considered to be an individualistic  society. This means that our culture values independence, individuality, and self-reliance. These are not inherently negative traits. But they can hinder our ability to recognize when we need a helping hand.

When we are young, we are encouraged to “try things on our own.” Promoting self-sufficiency is a great way to instill confidence in children. However, children and adults alike could also be taught that it’s a sign of great strength to know when you’ve met your limit and need help.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO ASK FOR HELP?

Taking better care of ourselves extends much father than keeping physically fit and healthy. Mental and emotional health is equally important to long-term well-being.

Taking on too many tasks and pushing ourselves to “have it all under control,” sets unrealistic expectations. When we don’t meet our own expectations, this can lead to disappointment and burnout.

Burnout is when we’ve become mentally, emotionally, and physically exhausted due to prolonged overexertion and stress.

Symptoms of burnout can include: 
  • Increased exhaustion
  • Regular headaches or body pain
  • Sense of failure
  • Change in sleeping and eating habits
  • Loss of motivation
  • Lack of satisfaction and sense of accomplishment
  • Isolating from others
  • Withdrawing from responsibilities
  • Procrastinating
ACCEPTING HELP

We can convince ourselves that handling things on our own is a sign of strength. But there’s not a single person who has it all together and doesn’t need any help at all.

Humans are naturally empathetic beings and most want to help. Yet, how many times do we turned down another person’s offer to help?

If only we could change how our thoughts about accepting help from others. Offers to help are acts of genuine care and not halfhearted pity. Moreover, accepting help allows others to GIVE to us. We mustn’t spoil someone’s desire to help us…to give to us.

The next time someone offers help, thank them and accept it!

“You are too kind. I could certainly use help. Thank you.”

ASK FOR HELP BEFORE FEELING OVERWHELMED

Self-reflection is an important skill when it comes to recognizing we need help. Looking within and admitting when we are beyond our capabilities takes immense courage.

As we practice and build this skill, we will be able to get ahead of the issue and ask for help before it weighs too heavily and becomes too much.

CONTACT CREATIVE COUNSELING CENTER

 

Creative Counseling Center is here to offer you help. Our DTC therapists are trained and ready to guide you through any challenges you may face. You never have to do it alone! Request a Free Phone Consultation by completing the brief form below and a member of our team will contact you shortly. After learning more about your specific circumstances, we will be able to partner you with a therapist best suited to support you. And because clicking with a therapist is important , we will do our best to match personalities too. If our practice or none of our therapists are not a good fit, we are happy to provide recommendations to area providers.

 

Contact Us

teri

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Teri Karjala is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Marriage and Family Therapist. She is the founder and Executive Director of Creative Counseling Center, LLC. Working in the field since 1999, Teri and her team of therapists specializes in counseling for those who have experienced trauma. They work with children as young as age 2, as well as teens and adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and couples.

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