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While in recovery, it's essential to have a strong support system. However, many people may be scared or too embarrassed to ask others for help. It may be challenging to ask for help from people in some cases because you have burned all your bridges. Fortunately, it’s not too late to patch those relationships up to get the much-needed support from your family and friends. Healing does not and should not be accomplished on your own.
Be Honest With Yourself
Being honest with those around you is a pivotal point of getting the help you need. However, being honest with yourself is even more critical. Admitting that you need help is the first step. Realizing that just because you need help with substance use or other negative behaviors doesn’t mean you are any less of a human being. If you are struggling with daily life while in recovery, that is okay. After entering the real world again, you may have a hard time adjusting. Be honest with yourself about the difficult emotions you are experiencing to be proactive in getting the help you need. Being honest with yourself exhibits the self-love that needs to be displayed for a healthy healing process.
Showing Courage
If you find yourself asking for help, it doesn't mean you are weak. Being too prideful and trying to recovery alone can be your downfall. To muster up the courage and reach out for help is very courageous! If you have been on any type of sports team, you understand the importance of numbers. This means that reaching out and building a team around you to help will lead you to victory.
When you feel like you have tarnished meaningful relationships, careers, and finances because of negative behaviors, it may be hard to be proud. This is more of a reason not to let your pride give you a reason to continue your harmful habits. It takes a lot of courage to put your ego to the side and seriously look for help.
The People in Your Life Would Love to Help
It’s common to feel like you might be a burden to your loved ones. If you have already put them through a lot, you may be slow to try to connect with them. In reality, the ones who love you are more than likely ready to give you what you need to help on your journey. The reason you may think they wouldn't help is the exact reason they would. You may have potentially put them through a lot, but your well-being is ultimately the most crucial part. Asking for help is not the same as being dependent on them. If you are struggling, reach out and be honest about what is going on.
Find Someone You Trust
The word that deserves the most focus in the process of recovery and relationships, in general, is trust. Trust is the foundation of every healthy relationship. If you are down on your luck and need money, a friend isn't going to loan you money unless they trust you. The best people to ask for help in recovery are the ones who stuck by your side and did not abandon you during your struggle.
Find Someone Who Can Relate
Understanding that you are not alone is an important part when it comes to reaching out for help. Including people who are also in recovery in your support system can be extremely beneficial. Reaching out to talk to someone with a similar experience will give you time to share your story with someone who can share and give you a frame of reference. This is a fundamental foundation that can be built, allowing you to have people who can hold you accountable.
You may find relatable people while completing your transformation living stay or in support groups such as 12-Step meetings like Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous. These people have gone through similar struggles and may have faced the hurdles of recovery themselves.
Fighting Off Embarrassment
Vulnerability is the main component of asking for help in any situation. Being vulnerable does not equate to weakness. Therefore needing or asking for help is nothing to be embarrassed about. You might spend a lot of time contemplating whether or not you’re going to tell your family and friends that you are struggling in recovery. However, chances are they have already noticed a change in your behavior. Even if they haven’t noticed, they will more than likely be willing to help without thinking twice.
Asking for help may seem like a simple concept, but you may avoid getting the help you need out of fear, fear of judgment, being a burden, and embarrassment. However, reaching out for help is an act of courage. Recovery is going to have its hurdles, and you are not expected to tackle everything alone. Reach out to those you can trust and who have gone through similar experiences. They may be able to give you advice or point you in the right direction. An essential part of loving yourself is asking for the help you need when you are struggling. The people who love you are ready and willing to help as long as you are prepared to help yourself. Show up for yourself by asking for help and seeking professional help if needed. If you are struggling in recovery and need extra assistance, call START UP RECOVERY at (310) 773-3809.