Strong doesn’t mean silent I remind myself often that asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s one of the bravest choices you can make. When dads try to carry everything alone, the load only gets heavier. Real strength is something different. It’s admitting that you can’t do it all by yourself. It’s teaching your kids that leaning on others doesn’t make you less of a man, it makes you human. And it’s not just about you. When you take that step toward getting help, you show your children what resilience looks like. You show them that it’s OK to have hard days and that no one is meant to face them alone. Like the old saying goes, no person is an island. You don’t have to do this by yourself. The truth is you were never supposed to. So, dads, if you’re struggling, give yourself permission to be strong in a new way. Be the example of courage your family needs. Take
• You can’t sleep, even when you’re exhausted. • You’ve thought about hurting yourself or wished you didn’t have to wake up tomorrow. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a place to start being honest with yourself. Ignoring these red flags won’t protect you or your family. It just makes the pain dig in deeper. What can you do if you recognize yourself in these words? The first step is doing something that feels scary: saying it out loud. Call a friend you trust and tell them, “I’m not OK.” You might be surprised how much relief there is in finally naming it. Talk to your partner. Let them in on what’s really happening inside. You don’t have to figure everything out in one conversation, but opening that door is powerful. You can also check with your workplace. Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs that provide a limited number of free counseling sessions. Talking to a professional who doesn’t judge you can help you see your situation more clearly. Another option is to make an appointment with your doctor. They can listen, offer guidance and help you figure out your next steps. If you ever feel like you’re in crisis or are thinking about ending your life, please know you are never alone. You can call or text 988 any time, day or night, or go to your nearest emergency room. There are people ready to help you, no matter what.
that first brave step toward help. You’ll be glad you did, not only for your own peace of mind, but also for the people who love you and want you here, healthy and whole. Editor’s note: Michael Dickerson is a mental health professional with over 13 years of experience. He leads a consulting group that works with organizations to support employee well-being.
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Healthy Families Guide 57
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