Empowerment Through Vulnerability

For me, it’s ALWAYS easier to OFFER help. It's at my very core. I love helping people get smarter, grow stronger, feel more empowered, and become more independent. 
 
If someone says they're sick, I offer to get soup. If someone has a flat tire or gets stuck in the snow, I offer to call AAA or come to the rescue. If someone is having a bad day, I offer to come over, or take a walk with them, or just listen.
 
But where my own well-being is concerned, I'm the first to downplay my feelings or situation. I like to be a problem-solver and don't like to feel “needy.” I've had to be strong and independent my entire life. I don’t like to admit when I feel vulnerable because then I open myself up to feelings that I’m not strong enough or not independent enough.
 
Does that sound like you, too? 
 
What we need to realize is that while it’s hard to admit being vulnerable, it also can be the first step on the road to empowerment. If we want to help empower others, sometimes we need help to empower ourselves. 
 
Here is an article that’s aimed primarily at senior caregivers, but it has plenty of tips that also can apply to family members and loved ones of those living with mental illness – including ways to feel empowered … asking for help … giving yourself a break … taking care of your own health … and our own personal favorite, joining a support group.
 
One-to-One Caregiver Support is for ANYONE who has felt like I have. Alone. Vulnerable. Afraid to ask for help. We will match you with another caregiver who has “been there and done that” to listen compassionately and help empower you to get back to that place of strength. 
 
Together, we are unstoppable! 

Kristi

Kristi Horner
Founder and Executive Director