The Importance of Reaching Out

By: Destiny Proulx-Kier

Created: March 3, 2025

Published: March 13, 2025

Life can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to push through challenges without realizing that you may need support. Mercyland Psychiatry Team (2024) discusses that mental health compromises our psychological, emotional, and social well-being. This overall influences our daily thoughts, feelings and actions and is critical in our ability to make decisions, manage stress and interact with others. It is important to note that “More than 19% of US adults, or about 50 million Americans, struggle with these issues, spanning all age demographics” (Physicians Premier ER, 2023). Recognizing when you need help is essential for maintaining your overall well-being. Here are key signs to look out for and steps to take when seeking assistance.

Signs You Might Need Help

     Persistent Feelings of Stress or Anxiety: Occasional stress is normal, but constant anxiety or feeling on edge may indicate it’s time to seek support.

     Difficulty Managing Daily Tasks: Struggling to complete routine responsibilities or feeling unmotivated can be a sign that something is off.

     Changes in Sleep or Appetite: Significant changes in sleep patterns or appetite can signal emotional or physical distress.

     Withdrawal from Social Activities: Isolating yourself from friends, family, or activities you once enjoyed might mean you need help.

     Feeling Hopeless or Overwhelmed: Persistent feelings of hopelessness or being unable to cope are strong indicators to reach out for support.

     Physical Symptoms Without Clear Causes: Unexplained headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue can be linked to emotional stress.

An important note from the Mercyland Psychiatry Team (2024) is that you do not have to be suffering from a diagnosed mental health condition to seek support. We all face circumstances in life that challenge our psychological, emotional or social wellness.

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Steps to Take When Seeking Help

     Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognizing that you need help is the first step toward improvement. It’s okay to admit that you’re struggling.

     Talk to Someone You Trust: Sharing your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor can provide relief and perspective.

     Seek Professional Help: A therapist, counselor, or social worker can help you understand your feelings and develop coping strategies.

     Explore Support Groups: Connecting with others who share similar experiences can reduce feelings of isolation.

     Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

     Take Small Steps Toward Self-Care: Simple acts like getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities you enjoy can improve your mood      and energy levels.

Breaking the Stigma

Asking for help can sometimes feel difficult due to stigma or fear of judgment. Remember that seeking support is a courageous step toward better health and happiness. You will have many benefits as mentioned by Physicians Premier ER (2023) such as you will not struggle alone, you’ll build connections, learn effective coping strategies, improve your quality of life and decrease the potential for other health concerns. You are not alone, and resources are available to help you navigate life’s challenges. If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone else, consider reaching out. Taking that first step can make a world of difference.

Mercyland Psychiatry Team. (2024, July 12). Breaking mental health stigmas: Understanding the importance of seeking support. Mercyland Psychiatry.

https://mercylandpsychiatry.com/breaking-mental-health-stigmas-understanding-the-importance-of-seeking-support/

Physicians Premier ER. (2023, October 24). Seeking support for better mental health. https://mdpremier.com/seeking-support-for-better-mental-health/

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