Shitshow Saturday #192 - Why You Can't Ask For HelpShitshow Saturday #192 - Why You Can't Ask For Help
Adult Child
Explore why asking for help is difficult for those from dysfunctional families. This episode shares personal stories and practical advice on overcoming these challenges.
37:24•21 Feb 2026
Why Asking for Help Feels Impossible
Episode Overview
- Recognise when you're downplaying your needs.
- Understand that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness.
- Identify the right people to ask for support.
- Set boundaries to protect your emotional well-being.
- Practice self-compassion and patience with yourself.
“"Just because I think I'm capable of doing something doesn't mean that I can't ask for help with it."”
Gain insights from experts and survivors on the challenges of asking for help, especially when growing up in a dysfunctional family. This episode of Adult Child, hosted by Andrea Ashley, is all about the struggle many face in reaching out for assistance. With a mix of personal stories and broader themes, it touches on the fear and shame that often accompany the simple act of asking for help.
You'll hear from guests like Mitchell and Kandra, who share their raw experiences of feeling unworthy or burdensome when seeking support. The episode reveals how these feelings are deeply rooted in childhood experiences and societal expectations. Andrea and her guests candidly discuss the barriers to asking for help, such as waiting until a crisis hits, downplaying needs, or choosing the wrong person to ask.
There's a poignant moment when a guest reflects on how their first addiction was listening to their parents fight, drawing a parallel to other coping mechanisms like gaming or substance use. The conversation isn't just about identifying problems; it's also about finding solutions. From setting boundaries to recognising the importance of self-compassion, the episode offers practical advice for breaking free from these patterns.
Whether you're struggling with similar issues or supporting someone who is, this episode provides a compassionate space for reflection and growth. So, what's holding you back from asking for help? This episode might just give you the nudge you need to start changing your perspective.

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