When You're Absolutely Not OK: How to Ask for Help

You know the feeling. You're down. You're out. You're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. You can't seem to shake it off.

You're not alone.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, more than 40 million adults in the United States suffer from anxiety disorders, while more than 16 million suffer from depression.

That's a lot of people.

If you're feeling *absolutely* not OK, it's important to know that you're not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help.

But sometimes, it can be hard to ask for help. You may be embarrassed, or feel like you're being a burden to others.

That's OK.

Here are a few tips on how to ask for help when you're feeling overwhelmed:

• Start by talking to someone you trust. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or anyone else who you feel comfortable talking to.
• Be honest about how you're feeling. Don't try to sugarcoat it or downplay your symptoms.
• Let them know what you need. Do you just need someone to listen? Do you need help with something specific? Be clear about what you're asking for.
• Be patient. It may take some time to find the right help for you. Don't give up if you don't find the perfect solution right away.

Remember, you're not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help. Don't be afraid to ask for help.