Why is asking for help so damn hard?

Dec 10·1 min read

My wife asked if I wanted to talk about why I've been distant lately and I just said "I'm fine" and changed the subject. I'm clearly not fine. I'm anxious about money, about being a good parent, about my parents aging, about everything. But admitting that feels like admitting I can't handle being a grown man. Logically I know that's stupid. Emotionally? Still feels impossible. Anyone else struggle with this vulnerability thing?

5 comments494 views

Comments(5)

CCarlos M.New DadDec 11

This hits hard. Why IS it so hard to ask for help? We're just taught that we gotta handle everything ourselves. But real talk - your wife asked you for a reason. She noticed something's off.

RRob K.RegularDec 12

Money anxiety as a parent is brutal because it feels like you're failing if you're not providing enough. But being a good parent isn't just about money. Your wife sounds like she's trying to support you. Let her in.

CCarl W.RegularDec 12

The fact that you're acknowledging this is step one. Lot of dads never get past the 'I'm fine' wall. Anxiety about money and parenting is real and legit. Your wife clearly wants to help.

FFinn M.RegularDec 13

Have you thought about actually taking her up on that offer? Like sit down this weekend and just... talk about the money stuff, the parent stuff, all of it? She's literally handing you the opening.

DDave K.RegularDec 13

Dude you need to talk to someone - your wife, a therapist, someone. This bottled up anxiety is only gonna get worse and it'll start affecting how you interact with your family. I've been there. Getting help changed everything for me.