In light of Men’s Health Week, this is the first blog released for a resource for men who would like to know more about reaching out for support when they need it.
When it comes to reaching out for support, it can be hard to navigate, especially if you are a private person or feel like you may be a burden by reaching out for support. Let’s go over some steps from our Happiness Co FIFO Happiness General Manager, Lachie on how to approach the process of reaching out for support.
1. Find the content you can consume on your own
Choose content that allows you to feel like someone else understands what you’re experiencing (Podcasts etc). This will give you the space to experience what’s happening, without feeling completely isolated.
2. Journal
Sit down with a timer, set it to 10 minutes, and write exactly how you feel about yourself and why. This may be confronting, but just write without judgement.
3. Read over what you’ve written and cross out anything you know isn’t true
4. Find someone you trust completely
Someone who you believe has the capacity to have an emotionally deep conversation and ask for their permission to share how you feel. It’s important to ensure that you choose someone you trust, rather than someone whose acceptance you want, because otherwise, we begin to creep into a space of manipulation, validation etc. The question should be something along the lines of “Hey, I really appreciate your friendship and I really trust you. I’m not in the best place atm, would it be ok if I share with you? If you don’t feel like you can have a conversation like this, it’s ok I’ll reach out to ___”
5. If they say no, acknowledge them for having the courage to say no
Understand that if they said yes and weren’t actually ready, they may have made you feel as though you made the wrong decision. From there, repeat Step 4. If they say YES, however, thank them, and share what you believe to be true from your journalling. You can either give them the letter, write it out as a message, or speak it out in person or on a call.
6. Celebrate yourself for having the courage to move through fear and take a stand for yourself
If you need any support or would like to be involved in any Happiness Co programs, feel free to reach out and our team will be in contact here.
