Why Asking for Help Is a Strength Not a Weakness

The idea that asking for help signals weakness is common but does not hold up well under examination. Recognising a need, and taking the step to address it, actually requires a clear kind of honesty and courage that avoiding the problem does not. This is not something that needs to be done alone, even if it starts that way.

Reframing help seeking as a strength can make the first step easier to take. It is, after all, the same instinct that leads people to see a doctor for a physical injury, simply applied to a different kind of difficulty. A little patience here tends to be repaid many times over.

MensLine Australia offers support for men on 1300 78 99 78, and Lifeline is available to everyone, at any hour, on 13 11 14. This is worth doing well before it feels urgently necessary. It helps to remember that most people appreciate the attempt, even if it feels clumsy.