Shame traps us in suffering by thriving in silence. By accepting our feelings and dropping the brave face, we increase our chances of seeking help. Share your shame with someone trustworthy, be it a close friend, family member, or professional who offers unconditional positive regard. Empathy extinguishes shame.

Prioritise experiencing your feelings over dissecting or repressing them. The first will be a somatic experience and the second cerebral. If we can let the feeling pass through our body, by acknowledging and expressing/releasing it, we will be less likely to create a painful story that keeps it trapped in our mind.

Recognizing and expressing our needs can be challenging, but it empowers our support systems to be there for us. By asking for what we need, we give ourselves permission to receive the help we deserve. Begin by making small requests to friends or family, or seek assistance from professionals to build confidence in asking for support.

Be open to accepting help. It takes courage to seek and receive assistance, and we're here to support you in that. Most people feel good when they help others, especially if the recipient expresses gratitude. This is community care and it builds safer environments for all.