Asking for what you need or admitting that you could use support is often a challenging request for most of us. We find that people have this false belief that they “should” be able to handle everything on their own, asking for help means they “can’t” do it, or seems like a sign of weakness. At Manhattan Wellness, we see asking for support as an ultimate sign of strength.
There’s a common misconception that being independent means you can’t lean on the people around you or have your support system help you out. But being independent has nothing to do with the support you receive from others. In fact, the awareness that you could use support and the strength in the ability to reach out reinforces that you see the value in those around you, are honoring the relationships that you have worked hard to build, and gives them permission to be there for you. Asking for help or leaning on others, doesn’t take away from your independence– in fact there’s much more power in numbers.
What would I say to a friend who was in this situation? If you had a friend who was facing similar challenges, you’d likely be kind and compassionate towards them. You’d also want to be there for them out of your care for them, not because you don’t believe in them. Try to offer yourself the same level of empathy and understanding, and remember that you’re deserving of support when you need it.
Ask for help by letting others know specifically what you need. You most likely have people in your life who care about you and would be more than happy to support you in the best way they can, but sometimes they may not know how to. Try to be clear and specific about what you need when you do reach out for support. For example, instead of saying “I’m so overwhelmed about dinner” say “Can you help me gather the ingredients?” This will let them know how they can be most helpful to you right now.
Reach out to people who can support you. It’s not about making the ask for support, it’s about who you ask for the support. Different people in your circle may have different capacities and abilities of what they could handle. For example, a friend who is going through a bad break up or who just got laid off may feel limited in their capacity to support someone during their own difficult time. It’s important to consider who in your circle may be the most equipped to support you in this moment.
Asking for help doesn’t make you a burden. Being open about your struggles and need for support gives people who care about you an opportunity to show compassion and kindness. You deserve support and many people are more than happy to provide it.
Don’t be afraid to or discouraged from asking for help – you may be surprised at the people who were waiting to support you, if they just knew how they could.
How has reaching out for support helped you most recently?
The truth is, there’s no single or one-size-fits-all approach to anxiety treatment. Everyone has a different approach to managing anxiety and anxious thoughts. That is why it’s important to get clear on what works for you. Once you have a better understanding of yourself and your values, you can start designing your life based on the things that are most important to you.
Therapy for women in Manhattan and Brooklyn is a great way to figure out how to manage your anxious mind. At Manhattan Wellness, we will provide you with a safe space to explore your feelings and goals. So you can find clarity on what you want for yourself. We will pair your vulnerability with our empathy and encouragement. Then together we will uncover the key elements that will take you from where you are now to where you want to be. If you are ready to make the changes you want in your life:
We believe that you have the power within yourself to make the changes you want and find your version of success. Our female therapists are here to support you in navigating this journey. Allowing you to reclaim your identity and take control of your life. Thus allowing you to create the future you’ve been dreaming of.
At Manhattan Wellness, our therapists are here to support you in navigating this journey and reclaiming your identity. So you can take control of your life and create the future you’ve been dreaming of. This is why we offer a variety of services to ensure you get the support, care, and guidance necessary. The therapy services we offer are Therapy for Maternal Mental Health, Self-Esteem Counseling, and Anxiety Treatment. Along with Dating/Relationship Counseling, Counseling for College Students, and more. Feel as if you are not living the life you deserve? Let’s talk about it.