Barriers To Asking For Help
This emotion makes people feel “not good enough” to ask for help.
What is shame?
Asking someone to listen to your feelings is this type of support.
What is emotional support?
“People will think I’m weak if I ask for help” is an example of this.
What is a negative belief (or distorted thinking)?
Isolation increases the risk of this in recovery.
What is relapse?
Saying “Can I talk to you?” is an example of this skill.
What is asking directly?
This fear involves worrying others will judge or reject you.
What is fear of rejection?
This type of support includes rides, reminders, or help with tasks.
What is practical support?
Changing “I’m weak” to “I’m taking care of myself” is called this.
What is reframing?
Reaching out early helps prevent this emotional build-up.
What is overwhelm?
This DBT skill involves asking for what you need clearly and respectfully.
What is DEAR MAN?
Believing “I should handle everything on my own” is an example of this barrier.
What is pride or over-independence?
Choosing someone who is safe, trustworthy, and respectful is called this.
What is choosing a safe support person?
This thinking pattern assumes the worst outcome when asking for help.
What is catastrophizing?
Not asking for help can lead to this cycle: emotions → isolation → use.
What is the relapse cycle?
Using “I feel…” statements helps reduce this in communication.
What is defensiveness (or conflict)?
Past experiences like trauma or betrayal can lead to this difficulty with others.
What is difficulty trusting others?
This means clearly stating what you need instead of expecting others to guess.
What is direct communication?
This belief says you should be able to do everything on your own.
What is unrealistic expectation (or perfectionism)?
This is the best time to ask for help—before or after a crisis?
What is before a crisis?
This skill involves expressing needs while maintaining self-respect.
What is assertiveness?
This belief says your needs are not important or don’t matter.
What is low self-worth (or feeling unworthy)?
This is when you accept help without guilt or pushing it away.
What is receiving support (or willingness to accept help)?
This healthier belief supports recovery and connection with others.
What is “I don’t have to do this alone”?
Name one warning sign that you may need help.
What are cravings / isolation / emotional distress? (any correct example)
This means staying open to the response, even if it’s not what you hoped for.
What is acceptance?