Asking for help seems simple enough, but it’s often the hardest word to say. I call it the “50,000-pound word.” For years, that word sat like lead on my chest, making it nearly impossible to say it aloud. But when I finally found the courage to ask, the crushing pressure was instantly lifted.

In active addiction, I was paralyzed under that weight. It wasn’t just one thing that kept me quiet; it was the web of lies I kept telling myself:

Pride and Ego: My inner critic insisting I should be “strong enough” to handle it alone.

The Fear of Shame: The terrifying thought if people knew the truth about my drinking, etc., they would respond with judgment. ( by the way I was not fooling anyone)

The Grip of Addiction: Addiction flourishes in the dark. My alcoholism acted as a silent partner, convincing me isolation was my only safety and silence — my only friend.

I know my addiction fed on my fear, using it as a shield to keep me from the very light that could help me. Today, even with years of recovery, I need to stay humble, honest and willing.

Breaking the silence and asking for help isn’t a confession of weakness; it’s a declaration of war against the things that keep us hidden. It is the first, most vital step toward reclaiming a life addiction tries to take away.

As we recognize Mental Health Month, we need to keep the conversation in the light and bring our fears out of the shadows — because we are better together. I look forward to seeing you at the SEEDS Conference on May 15!

To our contributors who poured their insight into this edition for Mental Health Awareness month—thank you.