Receiving help is not a sign of weakness

With R U OK day and UTS Wellbeing week this September, I couldn’t help but think of those battling mental setbacks. I often think about how the way we go on with our daily life is like a scene from a movie. When I ponder about this, I picture one of the most famous movie scenes in The Pursuit of Happiness, where the character of Will Smith downheartedly walks the busy streets of San Francisco. It shows how we can coexist in a busy world, yet still be isolated. 

In our lives and in our careers, mental setbacks can happen sometimes. Just like how being alive requires you to eat and breathe, it also means you are bound to stumble. However, we can always rest assured that we will find our way back up the ladder. Nevertheless, it can take some of us longer to do so. We often look at this as a lack of resilience or a sign of weakness. Really, the truth is that although we are all similar in so many ways, our individuality is what can divide us in experiences. It is important to place ourselves in the shoes of another. No matter how big or small, the fact that we are able to feel is a gift. This means that we can empathise and help. 

Sometimes, the fear of others not understanding can prevent us from reaching out. 

“What if they think I am weak?”

“What if I get made fun of?”

“What if no one will get it?”

“What if I am just too sensitive?”

“What if everyone leaves me?”

A lack of understanding can make those who suffer develop a fear of reaching out. By ignoring the signs and voices of others, we could even contribute to their pain. It’s like being pushed down while you have already fallen.

Therefore, let’s put the idea of how receiving help is a sign of weakness behind us. We need each other to survive. So, this month and always, consider:

• Asking how the people around you are doing
• Reaching out to those who you haven’t heard from in a while 
• Listening when someone is talking about their struggles 
• Checking in with those who we know are struggling 

If you are struggling remember that it’s okay to reach out for help. If you’re a UTS student, UTS has a confidential counselling service to help you out with a wide range of problems. Also consider speaking to love ones you trust, your doctor, or contacting online or phone support services to talk about what’s going on.

Don’t be afraid. 

Featured image courtesy of Pexels