If you’re feeling like a burden, you might be afraid of inconveniencing, annoying, or depending on anyone, even trusted loved ones. This feeling is often accompanied by depression and anxiety, and it may make it hard for you to reach out for help or ask for what you need. We’re here to tell you that this experience is very common, and though it might feel overwhelming right now, there are ways to overcome it, including setting strong boundaries, prioritizing your needs, and practicing relying on friends or family for support. For more information on how to stop feeling like a burden, keep reading.
This article is based on an interview with our licensed psychotherapist, Lauren Urban, LCSW. Check out the full interview here.
Things You Should Know
- You may feel like a burden if you’re reliant on loved ones for support, especially if you’ve been conditioned to put others first or people-please.
- You can overcome this feeling by speaking to a loved one about it. Ask if they've got some time to talk, and tell them you're struggling. They'll likely be happy to reassure you.
- A therapist may also help you address why you feel like a burden and make it easier for you to practice prioritizing yourself.
Steps
Expert Q&A
Tips
References
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/peaceful-parenting/202103/am-i-burden-am-i-too-much
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5033305/
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8806009/
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-long-reach-childhood/201408/being-burden
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-long-reach-childhood/201408/being-burden
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-emotional-meter/202104/what-it-really-means-take-care-yourself
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6437090/
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-long-reach-childhood/201408/being-burden