Coping with Stress During Tough Times: Tip 4

Developed by HRI Program Coordinator, Camila Dos Santos, M.Ed.

Tip 4: Remember it’s okay to rely on your support system to help you get through tough times. 

It is human nature to avoid asking for help. Combine that with a society that tends to stigmatize vulnerability, and many of us end up shutting out our loved ones when we are going through a difficult time. Ironically, this can only make tough times tougher.

Instead of shutting them out, try reaching out and sharing your feelings with someone you trust.  They may be able to offer a different perspective or comforting words, and you may end up finding that support from a loved one is exactly what you needed to overcome a difficult moment.

Reaching out to people that we love and trust for support can help to reduce stress and to feel supported during tough times.