The Courage to Seek Help: Redefining Strength in a Changing World
For far too long, we’ve been told that strength means handling everything alone. That struggling in silence is a sign of resilience. That admitting we need help is weakness.
But here’s the truth: there is nothing weak about seeking help. In fact, it takes incredible courage to acknowledge when we’re struggling and take steps to do something about it.
The Outdated Definition of Strength
Many of us were raised with the idea that "being strong" means:
Pushing through no matter what
Never showing vulnerability
Solving every problem alone
Avoiding "burdening" others with our struggles
This belief is deeply ingrained in many cultures, workplaces, and families. It has been passed down for generations, often with good intentions. But the reality is that this outdated version of strength often leads to burnout, isolation, and emotional distress.
How many people have suffered in silence because they felt they had no other choice? How many times have you pushed yourself past your limit, convincing yourself you could "handle it"?
The True Strength in Asking for Help
It takes real courage to admit when you’re struggling. It takes even more strength to take action and seek support.
Strength is:
Recognising when you need support and asking for it
Allowing yourself to be seen in your vulnerable moments
Understanding that self-care is not selfish—it’s necessary
Taking control of your well-being instead of letting stress consume you
Seeking help—whether through therapy, coaching, BodyTalk, or any other healing modality—is an act of self-respect. It means you value yourself enough to invest in your health and healing.
You are not broken for needing support. You are human.
Applauding Those Who Seek Help
If you’ve ever reached out for support—whether from a therapist, a trusted friend, a mentor, or a professional—you deserve recognition. You made a brave decision to prioritise yourself.
If you’re currently in the process of reaching out, or even just thinking about it, know this: you are already doing something brave. The desire to seek help is the beginning of healing.
Affirmations to Remind Yourself of Your Strength
Here are a few simple affirmations to speak aloud or write down—words to anchor you in your truth, especially on days when doubt creeps in:
It’s okay to ask for help. In fact, it’s a strength I’m proud to have.
I am allowed to be supported.
My vulnerability is a sign of my humanity, not my weakness.
I am worthy of care, rest, and compassion.
Choosing to heal is an act of power.
I do not have to carry everything on my own.
I am strong in ways that don’t always look loud or obvious.
Each step I take towards healing is valid and meaningful.
Repeat these as often as you need. Write them on sticky notes. Set them as reminders on your phone. Speak them like you mean them—until you do.
Moving Toward a Healthier Future
As a society, we need to redefine what it means to be strong. True strength isn’t about enduring unnecessary suffering. It’s about resilience, self-awareness, and knowing when to lean on others.
Let’s normalise conversations about therapy, mental health, and seeking support. Let’s celebrate those who take steps to improve their well-being. Let’s support each other in becoming stronger—not through silent struggle, but through courage, connection, and self-care.
You don’t have to do it all alone. You were never meant to.
I’m Jonathan, a Certified BodyTalk Practitioner and Stress and Anxiety Expert.
If you feel the need to recalibrate your Inner Compass and reconnect with yourself, let’s explore this journey together.
