REACHING OUT—
Your Personal Support System
Family and friends are your personal support network. Who do you rely on (include pets) when you
Need a hug? _____________________________________
Want to learn new things? ___________________________
Want acceptance and approval? ______________________
Have a financial problem? ___________________________
Want to play? ____________________________________
Want to explore new ideas? __________________________
Want sound advice? ________________________________
Have a problem? __________________________________
Need help with your kids? ___________________________
Need to share grief or sorrow? ________________________
Need emergency help? ______________________________
 Do you rely on one person for many things? If so, perhaps you need to broaden your base of support. Think of two or three other people you could call on.
For some of us, the hardest part of developing a support system is asking for help. We might be afraid we'll be considered weak if we ask for help. We might worry that people will refuse to help, or that they will feel burdened by our request. But most people actually feel good about being able to help others. It reinforces that important human need to be needed. If you are having trouble reaching out, ask yourself these questions:
Who would you ask for help if you weren't afraid to?
What fears keep you from asking?
How would you feel if someone ask you for this same help?
What specific things could you do to get more help and support?
Specific things you could ask a person for would be information, suggestions, shared experiences, or new contacts.
Good beginnings might include:
- Do you know anyone who could help me with........?
- I'm trying to get more information about........?
- I'm looking for people who might have worked with........?
Remember, the EAP office can be a part of your support system too. Call us at 464-5760.
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