I think that a lot of times, we hate to fess up to the fact that we need help with something. As human beings, we like to think that we are capable, and strong, and self-motivated. We like to think that we can handle the things life throws at us, and we like to think that we can handle these things on our own.

Realistically, though, there's a reason why we are wired to need human connection. There's a reason why we biologically need to build interactions and relationships, and it is because we weren't made to be alone.

Confessing that you can't make it on your own doesn't make you weak. It makes you human.

Especially when it comes to men (sorry guys), thee are certain socially constructed messages being sent regarding this idea of strength and, in this case, masculinity, and this idea of masculinity generally entails a certain degree of bravery and "emotionlessness", so to speak. Society has built these gender expectations that get internalized and ultimately become very detrimental, and though we have made progress in breaking these down, we still have a long way to go. It is easy to get blindsided by the social progress being made, but in reality these messages of masculinity truly are being internalized, and they are stopping people from reaching out in times of need. Today's dialogue surrounding the concept of "toxic masculinity" plays into this in major ways.

That being said, though, the behavior of refraining from getting help is recognizable in all people, regardless of gender or any other social category. It is something we all struggle with, but it is something we don't need to struggle with.

When you are at your weakest points, I can assure you that the people in your life who love and care about you want to be there for you. They want to make sure you are alright, they want to be able to comfort you, and they want to help.

When you suffer in silence, you are allowing the negativity that is affecting you to grow, and when you allow it to grow, you are allowing it to consume you and your life. Let people in. Stop building walls around yourself because you think you're a burden, or a bother, or weak. You are none of these things- you are human. Admitting that something is wrong is a sign of strength, and extreme strength. It takes courage to be able to say that you aren't fine. It takes courage to take that step and reach out for help, rather it be comfort from friends, or a meeting with a professional. Any step is still a step, no matter how small.

The people in your life want to help, and they can only help you if you let them. Please, let them.