5 Ways to Ask for Help When You’re Struggling with Anxiety or Depression

​Mental struggles such as anxiety or depression can make you feel ashamed, lonely, and unwilling to ask for help. Many of those who suffer from these conditions often shut themselves away, afraid to burden other or believe they deserve help from those they love. However, the more sufferers lock themselves away, the worse the condition usually gets. If you’re struggling with anxiety or depression, here are a few ways you can reach out for the support you need.
 
1. Ask for a Companion  You don’t need to ask for someone to make you feel better, ask for advice, or even tell someone you’re feeling down or anxious. Simply asking a friend or family member to accompany you to a movie, shopping, or ANY activity that makes you feel better is a step in the right direction.

​2. Read the Story of Other Sufferers  Sometimes, the only thing that will make you feel better is reading about others who have struggled with the same issues as you’re now facing. Even if you don’t find any answers, you’ll still benefit from knowing you’re not alone. Simply finding a book that helps you wrap your mind around your mental state is a form of asking for (and getting) help.
 

​3. Talk to Someone You Trust  It’s likely that you’ve shared some of your struggles with people in the past and they’ve either dismissed your feelings, ridiculed you, or shut you out. This can make it very difficult to reach out again. However, don’t assume that everyone will be like this. If you think about all the people in your life, you will probably find at least one who you trust with your feelings. All it takes is one good listener to lighten your burden.

​4. Join a Support Group  It’s easier to talk about how you’re feeling with those who understand your struggles because they’ve personally been through them. There are support groups available both in person and online filled with those who can laugh and cry with you and reassure you that you’re not alone.

5. Meet with a Therapist  Although talking with someone you trust or others who struggle with depression and anxiety is certainly helpful, sometimes you need to go to the next level and speak with a therapist. As well as being a sounding board and a compassionate listener, a therapist can give you proven coping strategies that will help you start feeling better.

​The most important thing to realize when you’re feeling down or anxious is that there are always people and resources out there to help you feel better. By simply reaching out in the way that feels most natural to you, you can begin the path to healing. 

If you question if you are experiencing anxiety or depression, please contact me and we can arrange for a therapy session.