Sometimes it’s hard to accept when we need help. I wanted to address this because it’s very serious and close to my heart. I am no expert but can only speak to my own circumstances and what I’ve struggled through. I’ve tried to touch into a piece of this subject in some previous articles “Learning to Love Yourself” Part 1, and Part 2. But I really wanted to hit the nail on the head and get specific. We don’t HAVE to do anything on our own. There are many times that we honestly shouldn’t. I’ve spoken MANY times about making sure to find the right tools and resources to help you be the most successful. Accepting assistance is just as much a resource as a supplement, or an exercise routine.
A big part of this is based on some of my own struggles with depression. I feel it’s so important because of how long I struggled on my own. There was part of me that felt that if I opened up to anyone, I would be a burden. That it wasn’t their problem, and it would make me look weak. When I wrote about functioning with depression, I tried to make a huge point about our own personal strength. I truly believe the capacity of strength that all of us have is amazing. However, that does NOT mean we have to do it on our own. Accepting help when needed is a smart decision not a weak one. Why would we choose to walk across the country if we can drive?
I felt so alone and isolated. Everyone around me seemed to be the biggest jerks on the planet. I felt like everything they did was to just hurt me more. I felt like I wasn’t good enough and would never be. I felt like I was drowning. I finally was willing, out of desperation, to seek some help. To have someone look at me and tell me that I was perfect, even though I couldn’t accomplish the things I wanted to. To tell me that I was perfect just the way I am, faults and all hit me so deep my emotions overflowed.
There was a huge change in me in that moment. I feel like my soul opened to the people around me. Not to rely on them but to be open and real. I didn’t need to hide myself, or the things that I struggled with. I began to accept myself and love myself. When I talked about things I was struggling with, it wasn’t to complain or get attention. It was just to talk in general. It honestly gave me a healthier view on the struggles. They weren’t something that were bringing me down or holding me back. They were what proved how strong I was, and they were just a regular part of life that helps to shape us.
I took the steps to accept the help that was available to me. Because of that I am mentally in a healthier place. Which helped me have the confidence to physical meet my health goals. If you are struggling and having a hard time keeping your head up. Please know there is help and support out there. That by going and accepting that help you aren’t showing weakness. You are showing strength and becoming stronger. You are perfect, just the way you are.
Mel's Health and Fitness 