Unwrap the Gift of Support: Why Asking for Mental Health Help is the Bravest Holiday Move

The holiday season often brings joy and celebration, but for many adults, it can also trigger feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. Despite these struggles, a significant number of people feel afraid to ask for help. Understanding why asking for support is difficult, how to reach out effectively, and recognizing the mental health challenges during this time can make a real difference.

A quiet living room decorated for the holidays with an empty chair symbolizing loneliness

Why Asking for Help Feels So Hard

Many adults hesitate to ask for help because of fear or stigma. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety often carry a social burden that makes people feel weak or judged if they admit they are struggling. During the holidays, this pressure can intensify as there is an expectation to be happy and festive.

Some common reasons people find it difficult to ask for help include:

• Fear of being a burden to others

• Worry about being misunderstood or dismissed

• Feeling ashamed or embarrassed about their mental health

• Not knowing who to turn to or how to start the conversation

  
  

These feelings can create a cycle where stress and anxiety build up, making it even harder to reach out.

How to Ask for Help When You Need It

Reaching out for support is a brave and important step. Here are some practical tips for adults who find it difficult to ask for help:

• Start small: Share your feelings with a trusted friend or family member in a low-pressure setting.

• Be specific: Instead of saying “I’m not okay,” try explaining what you’re feeling or what kind of support you need. For example, “I’ve been feeling very anxious lately and could use someone to talk to.”

• Use written communication: Sometimes writing a message or email can feel easier than speaking face-to-face.

• Seek professional help: Therapists, counselors, and support groups are trained to listen and provide guidance. Many offer virtual sessions, which can be more accessible during busy holiday times.

• Remember it’s okay to say no: Asking for help doesn’t mean you have to accept every offer. Set boundaries that protect your well-being.

  
  

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a step toward healing and managing stress.

Notebook with a handwritten list on how to ask for help, surrounded by cozy holiday decorations

Mental Health During the Holiday Season: What the Numbers Show

Research highlights that the holiday season can worsen mental health for many adults. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):

• About 64% of adults report increased stress during the holidays.

• Nearly 25% of adults with mental health conditions say their symptoms worsen during this time.

• Rates of depression and anxiety spike, with some studies showing a 20% increase in reported symptoms.

• Suicide rates tend to rise in the weeks following the holidays, underscoring the need for support.

  
  

Financial pressures, social isolation, and grief over lost loved ones contribute to these challenges. Many people feel isolated even in crowded rooms, which can deepen feelings of loneliness and despair.

Creating a Supportive Environment

If you know someone who might be struggling, your support can make a difference. Here are ways to help without overwhelming them:

• Listen without judgment

• Offer specific help, like accompanying them to an appointment or helping with daily tasks

• Encourage professional support if needed

• Check in regularly, especially after the holidays when stress can linger

  
  

For adults who are afraid to ask for help, knowing someone cares and is ready to listen can be a lifeline.

Park bench covered in autumn leaves with soft sunlight, symbolizing a moment of reflection

Moving Forward with Compassion and Courage

The holiday season can be a difficult time for many adults facing depression, anxiety, and stress. Feeling afraid to ask for help is common but not insurmountable. Taking small steps to reach out, understanding the statistics behind mental health struggles, and fostering supportive connections can ease the burden.