The simple fact is that no one knows what goes on behind closed doors. And over the last few weeks, I’ve been reminded that a happy exterior can be a mask for inner turmoil, confusion or unhappiness. So I wanted to reach out today and tell you this: wherever you are in life and whatever you are going through, you are not alone.

Let’s be honest, adulting is hard.

Often times we think we should be happy, or at least satisfied but we aren’t. Sometimes we know why and other times we just can’t put our finger on it. But regardless of the context or the reason for our sadness, pain or discontent, the result is unsettling and can be very lonely.

We want to be happy. We want everything to be okay. And for many, we don’t want to burden or inconvenience others with our troubles.

Instead, we keep it all inside and hope no one notices. We try to manage it alone or hope it will resolve itself.

If this feels true for your right now, I want to offer you these ideas for getting through.

  • Find someone to talk to it. It may be a friend or a professional, but find someone you trust and can be honest and open with. They do not need to have the answers, they just need to be there for you.
  • Get help. Seek guidance from an expert on appropriate next steps to help you through. It may be a counsellor, medical professional or advisor. They will be able to offer resources and strategies to help you through. This is usually much easier than we think.
  • Remember you are not alone. Most of us have been through some period of uncertainty or struggle in our lives and even though you may feel isolated, you are not alone. It takes vulnerability to seek help, but we all need a support system.

Finally, we never know what truly goes on behind the closed door of each other’s minds, lives or relationships, so let’s act with kindness and care for each other.

Useful Resources

  • Lifeline (13 11 14) offers free telephone support 24 hours a day, as well as self-help tool kits and a wide range of information on topics, including, financial stress, panic attacks and family and relationship problems.
  • Relationships Australia (1300 364 277) is Australia’sleading provider of relationship support services for individuals, families and communities.
  • Beyond Blue (1300 224 636) provides information and support to help Australians achieve their best possible mental health.

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