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10:00 AM – 6:00 PM to support you with urgent concerns and guide you toward the right care.
Learn how to ask for help with your recovery when friends, family, and support systems are also facing their own challenges, especially during difficult times like a pandemic.
Reaching out for support is a cornerstone of recovery, but what happens when the people you typically turn to are also facing their own difficulties? The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified challenges for many, making the act of asking for help feel even more daunting. You might worry about burdening others or appearing selfish when everyone is dealing with their own set of struggles. This guide offers practical ways to navigate asking for help, even in these challenging times, ensuring your recovery journey remains supported.
Several factors contribute to the hesitation many feel when seeking assistance. Fear of rejection, shame, and guilt can be significant barriers. You might ask yourself: What if they say no? What will they think of me needing support again? Shouldn't I be able to handle this on my own by now? These internal questions can paralyze the desire to reach out.
Addiction, as a chronic and progressive disease, often requires ongoing support. As Dr. Adam D. Scioli, a psychiatrist, explains, it's not a moral failing or a sign of weakness. It's a medical condition that necessitates help. When a pandemic enters the picture, these feelings can intensify. The fear of overwhelming others or appearing insensitive to their own hardships adds another layer of complexity. The usual avenues for support, like in-person meetings or casual coffee chats, have become restricted, creating a sense of isolation that can be particularly difficult during a crisis.
Several psychological and situational factors make asking for help challenging:
Dr. Christine Crawford, associate medical director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, notes that social isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness. Finding creative ways to stay connected becomes vital.
Even when everyone seems to be facing challenges, there are effective ways to reach out:
Victoria Metz, a certified recovery coach, advises keeping in touch with at least 10 people. This network doesn't have to consist of your closest confidantes. Family members, neighbors, or even acquaintances can be part of this group. The goal is to have a wider net so that if one person isn't available, another likely will be.
Real-life scenario: Maya felt overwhelmed after a setback in her recovery. She hesitated to call her best friend, knowing her friend was dealing with job stress. Instead, she remembered Metz's advice and reached out to an old college acquaintance she hadn't spoken to in months. They had a brief, supportive chat that helped Maya feel less alone.
Instead of a vague plea for help, be specific about what you need and when. Dr. Scioli suggests saying, "I've noticed that I start to get in my head and engage in a lot of negative self-talk around 2:00 PM. Would it be okay if I reached out to you tomorrow at that time to see if it would help me?" This approach respects the other person's time and clearly defines the request.
Recovery is often a reciprocal process. When you reach out, consider how you can offer support to others, even in small ways. This can help balance the dynamic and reduce feelings of guilt.
Don't underestimate the value of professional help. Many organizations offer confidential support:
Recognize that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Be kind to yourself during difficult times. It's okay to need support, especially when facing complex challenges like addiction and global crises.
With physical distancing measures in place, adapt how you connect. This might involve phone calls, video chats, secure messaging apps, or even carefully planned outdoor, distanced meetups.
If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it is critical to seek immediate professional help. The resources listed above, such as SAMHSA and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, are available 24/7 to provide support.
No, it is not selfish. Your well-being is important, and seeking support is a necessary part of maintaining it. Many people are willing to help if they can, even if they are also facing difficulties. The key is to ask mindfully and respectfully.
Utilize professional resources like SAMHSA, NAMI, or local mental health services. Support groups and helplines are specifically designed to assist individuals who may feel they have no one else to turn to.
Be honest about your needs and capacity. You can say, "I'm going through a tough time myself, but I'm here to listen if you need to talk, and I also need some support with X." Mutual support, when possible, can strengthen relationships.
Most people do not notice early warning signs right away. That is common. A simple symptom diary, basic routine checks, and timely follow-up visits can prevent small problems from becoming serious.
If you are already on treatment, stay consistent with medicines and lifestyle advice. If your symptoms change, do not guess. Check with a qualified doctor and update your plan early.
Write down symptoms, triggers, and timing for a few days.
Carry old prescriptions and test reports to your consultation.
Ask clearly about side effects, red-flag signs, and follow-up dates.
Seek urgent care for severe pain, breathing trouble, bleeding, fainting, or sudden worsening.
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