I love the book The Boy, the mole, the fox and the horse by Charlie Mackesy. This is a story of friendship, courage, overcoming fear and finding fulfilment.  It is about being loved and accepted for just who you are. I have many favourite quotes from the book but one I particularly like is the recognition that asking for help is a brave act, and not a weakness.

So often we say ‘well I’ve just got to get on with it’. Or we keep going and going wondering why we are not sleeping, have racing thoughts, feeling so overwhelmed that it’s all just too much!

I recall a time when I felt just like this after experiencing bereavement, divorce, moving home all within 12 months, but felt I had to ‘just get on with it’. Until one day I overheard two women singing, laughing and so full of joy it made me realise that I had forgotten what that felt like. I felt joyless, emotionally exhausted.  I found the courage to ask for help from my GP, family and friends.

I had counselling too. My counsellor provided a safe, confidential space, where I could process my feelings, make sense of them, find my own answers. It took time but I found joy again; life became meaningful and happy.

We all need help sometimes, even counsellors.  In fact, it is our life experiences that inform our deep empathy, compassion and acceptance of our clients. If any of my story resonates with you, I encourage you to ask for help – it may be one of the bravest things you do.