There is a lot of negativity surrounding any type dependence on other people. It’s a very American thing to not want to rely on anyone else to get by, and there’s a strong urge to be totally independent.
This type of thinking taken to the extreme, however, provides a hotbed for addiction.
When you have no one to turn to or no one to unload on, your pent-up emotions start to wear on you. That’s when you begin to self-medicate with drugs, alcohol, and other addictions.
I’m not saying all addictions stem from forced independence, but the former is a likely symptom of the latter. There’s no shame in needing others—in fact it’s the key to a prosperous life.
Talk to a family member or a friend, even a stranger if the moment is right! Of course, when you start to see me, you will lean on me for help; I wouldn’t expect otherwise! You’re not paying me to watch you get better on your own. I could care less about who is responsible for your improvement; my main goal is that you improve—successfully and permanently. If it takes leaning on me or anyone else, to get there, then so be it! 212-599-3195.