WHAT’S THE BRAVEST THING YOU’VE EVER SAID?

“What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever said?” Asked the boy.

“Help,” said the horse.

Another quote from Charles Mackesy’s lovely book, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse.

When life is overwhelming, and you’re struggling to cope, do you ask for help? Sometimes we can get so focused on helping others that we forget to consider our needs. Opening up when we’re struggling can be hard. It takes courage.

So, what are we afraid of? Is it:

• Being seen as vulnerable or needy?

• Being rejected or judged?

• Being seen as a failure?

• Losing control?

• Imposing on others?

The cost of not seeking help can be very high. The shame about my burnout made me feel alone and deeply flawed. It took me a long time to come to terms with what had happened to me.

 When I first spoke about my mental health in public, I was astonished by the number of people who started sharing their own stories with me. By being vulnerable and opening the door to my inner emotions and feelings, it was as though a door had also opened up for them. It helped me see that I wasn’t alone in struggling, which comforted me.

 I wonder, if I’d asked for help sooner, would my burnout have been avoided?

 I have come to understand that when we do open up and share our difficulties, we start to see that:

• Having setbacks is part of life.

• Other people struggle too.

• Seeking support from others helps us to reduce our stress and get unstuck.

• People who care about us will do everything they can to help us.

 Problems in our heads always seem worse. You don’t need to struggle on your own – find someone to talk to.

Asking for help isn’t weak; it’s one of the bravest things you can do.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. I do that every day. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of strength. It shows you have the courage to admit when you don't know something, and to learn something new. — Barack Obama