Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Some people just don’t get it! And you know what? That’s okay – Not everyone will.
Luckily, I am happy to say that we live in a world where many individuals are openly challenging the stigma around mental health. More and more people are on board with the idea of taking time for self care and emotional growth.
This process of emotional growth can be difficult, especially when those we want support from are not actually capable of providing it. It is easy to interpret this as the other person not caring, and that you are alone on your path, but this is rarely the case. They may be overwhelmed in their own personal life. Sometimes their own life experiences hinder their ability to have helpful words or simply listen. The list of reasons can go on and on, but it doesn’t take away from the feeling of loneliness when we’re struggling and not getting the support we need. Throughout my work as a clinician, I have worked with my clients on ways to find support when in similar situations.
One of the most common themes in therapy is exploring how to make the best of the support we have. People often have a specific image of what they think support looks like, however support can come in many forms. It may not always be understanding your struggle. Support can be any small act that helps you in your process, whether it be just sitting with you as you cry or doing something fun like going to see a movie.
It’s also important that we have realistic expectations for our support network. Taking an honest inventory of who can be helpful and how is necessary. While some people are great at giving advice, they may not necessarily make the best listeners. That same person who often minimizes, may be great at getting you out of the house. You might even want to try doing some preventative work. Let your support system know how they help you and (kindly) how they don’t. Family sessions can be a great place to have these conversations.
I’ll leave you with this 
Find that person who can give you the space to talk, whether it be a therapist or a friend. Don’t go at it alone.
