Struggling with Depression? Here’s Exactly What to Say When You Need Help

Reaching out for help when you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts can feel impossible — especially when you don’t know what to say. In this episode, mental health advocate Sam Dylan Finch shares practical, word-for-word language you can use to ask for the support you need.

From small requests for daily help to urgent crisis communication, Sam’s list provides 10 powerful phrases that break through stigma, silence, and uncertainty. Whether you’re the one struggling or someone who wants to better support a loved one, these tools can make the difference between isolation and connection.

💡 If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t know how to ask for help,” this conversation gives you the language, courage, and strategies to reach out.

Link to Sam's list: 
https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why asking for help is harder than it sounds
• Practical, word-for-word phrases to use when reaching out
• How to ask for specific daily-life support without shame
• The healing power of reminiscing and asking for reminders of your value
• How to safely communicate urgent or suicidal feelings
• Why reaching out earlier — before crisis — saves lives
• Overcoming stigma and believing you are worthy of support

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and purpose of the conversation
 01:02 - Why reaching out for help isn’t as simple as it sounds
 01:35 - Sam Dylan Finch’s personal loss and realization about asking for help
 02:22 - Why vague advice like “just ask for help” often fails
 02:58 - Sam’s list of practical phrases begins
 03:07 - What tools can help people survive between appointments?
 04:08 - Phrase #6: Asking for help with a specific daily task
 05:44 - Phrase #7: Asking for reminders of your value or favorite memories
 06:56 - Healing through reminiscence and why it works
 07:22 - Phrase #8: How to ask for urgent support when you’re near your limit
 08:41 - Phrase #9: Reaching out to less-close connections for support
 10:07 - Why you are worthy of new relationships, even when struggling
 10:28 - Phrase #10: Directly saying “I’m suicidal. I need help right now.”
 11:16 - Understanding mental health struggles as true emergencies
 12:17 - Why loved ones would always rather be “bothered” than lose you
 13:34 - Using these asks before reaching a crisis point
 13:47 - Personal reflections on trying Sam’s suggestions
 14:33 - Closing thoughts and resources

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