They say you can only help people who help themselves, or who want to change. That’s very difficult when someone we love or appreciate is damaging themselves, or refusing to get the care they so desperately deserve.
When you’re in this headspace, however, you may dismiss the need for help for several reasons. Some can involve denial, trauma, or simple unwillingness to accept difficult decisions you’ve mad,e of course. But in some cases you may just be worried, and not know what a new normal looks like. Walking up a mountain can feel very difficult when you feel like tying your shoes is something of a challenge.
However, if you think that now is the time where help is appropriate to prioritize, as it always is, it’s wise to consider a few steps going forward.
Don’t Think You Need All The Answers
You don’t have to figure everything out before you start getting help, sp waiting until you understand your whole situation perfectly just keeps you stuck longer. Some in a similar position think they need to know exactly what’s wrong, why it happened, and what the solution looks like before they can reach out to anyone. The secret is that figuring out those answers is usually part of the help process itself, not something you need to solve beforehand.
Therapists, counselors, and support groups, especially those at the Delray Center for Healing, exist specifically to help you sort through the confusion and find clarity. They’re trained to work with people who feel lost or confused. You can walk into their office and say you’re struggling without having a neat explanation or a clear plan, and that’s completely normal and expected.
Find Peace & Rest In Humility
Admitting you need help demands letting go of the idea that you should be able to handle everything on your own, and that’s a relief once you get used to it. It’s entirely freeing to acknowledge that you’re human and that humans naturally need support from other humans to get through difficult times.
Humility here doesn’t mean thinking less of yourself, remember that, but accepting that struggling doesn’t make you weak or broken. Most people who seem to have their lives together have gotten help at some point, be that through therapy, support groups, trusted friends, or professional guidance.
Take A Very Small Step
The first step doesn’t have to be dramatic or life-changing, just something slightly different from what you’ve been doing. You could engage in the smallest step by looking up therapists in your area, calling a helpline, or telling one trusted person how you’re really feeling. You could start by downloading a mental health app or writing down your thoughts for a few minutes each day. You could even just ask a relative to come and talk to you, and laying it all out for them. It’ll build momentum and help you feel more confident.
With this advice, you’re certain to finally accept the help you need and deserve.
