Are you someone who finds it easy to ask family or friends for help, or do you tend to struggle alone?

A natural way to answer

It's something I've had to learn. For years I'd bottle things up and refuse to lean on anyone. Over time I realised that letting people help actually brings you closer, so now I try to reach out before things get too bad.

Key phrases to use

• soldier on — to keep going through difficulty without complaining or asking for help“I just soldier on instead of asking.”
• a burden — a source of worry or extra work for someone else“I don't want to be a burden on my family.”
• bottle things up — to keep your feelings or problems hidden instead of sharing them“He tends to bottle things up rather than talk.”
• reach out — to contact someone, often to ask for support or reconnect“I try to reach out when I'm struggling.”
• stand on my own two feet — to be independent and able to look after yourself without help“I was raised to stand on my own two feet.”
• show up — to be present and supportive for someone when it matters“Asking for help lets people show up for you.”