Hidden Barriers: Why Women Struggle to Ask for Help

... and What It Means for Their Holistic Health

Asking for help is often misunderstood as a sign of weakness, but in reality, it’s one of the most empowering acts we can embrace. In both our personal lives and careers, reaching out for support is crucial for overcoming challenges, building stronger relationships, and achieving our goals. Yet, many of us—especially women—hesitate to ask for the help we need, even when it could make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of asking for help from a holistic health perspective we'll explore the importance of asking for help, share eye-opening statistics, and provide actionable strategies to overcome the barriers that might be holding you back. Plus, we’re excited to introduce an upcoming event designed to empower you to share more, ask for help, and thrive in every aspect of your life.

The Reluctance to Ask for Help: A Widespread Issue

Did you know that 70% of us avoid asking for help even when they need it? This hesitation often stems from fears of being judged, appearing incompetent, or feeling like a burden—many of the same barriers that stop women from sharing their worries. Unfortunately, these fears can lead to negative outcomes, including increased stress, missed opportunities, and even burnout.

But for women, the reluctance to ask for help is often intensified by societal expectations. We’re taught to be strong, independent, and self-sufficient—values that, while important, can make it difficult to reach out when we need support. Research shows that women are statistically less likely to ask for help than men, which can have a significant impact on everything from career advancement to personal well-being.

Impact on Holistic Health

• Mental Health: According to a study by the American Psychological Association, 75% of women report experiencing significant stress, yet only about 50% seek help for managing it. This statistic underscores the gap between experiencing stress and reaching out for support, which could help alleviate that burden. Studies show that failing to seek help can lead to chronic stress, which has long-term health implications.
• Career Advancement: Research from LeanIn.org reveals that women are 20% less likely than men to ask for a raise or promotion, even when their work merits it. This hesitation can lead to a significant gender pay gap and slower career progression for women. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that employees who ask for help are seen as more competent and are more likely to be promoted.

Why Asking for Help is Crucial to Success

Contrary to popular belief, asking for help doesn’t make us look weak—in fact, it can enhance our competence and effectiveness. ?Studies reveal that leaders who ask for help are often perceived as more capable by their teams. ?When we ask for help, we open ourselves to new perspectives and solutions, and we also strengthen our connections with others.

For entrepreneurs and women in leadership positions, this is especially important. ?Running a business or leading a team can be incredibly isolating, and trying to handle everything on your own can lead to unnecessary stress and exhaustion. ?By asking for help, you leverage the knowledge, skills, and support of others, ultimately driving your success and well-being

• Entrepreneurship and Leadership: A study by the Kauffman Foundation found that female entrepreneurs are 40% less likely to ask for financing or mentorship compared to their male counterparts, which can hinder business growth and innovation. Additionally, women in leadership roles who actively seek mentorship and guidance are 50% more likely to advance in their careers compared to those who don’t.
• Workplace Dynamics: According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, employees who ask for help are seen as more competent and are more likely to be promoted. This is particularly relevant in male-dominated industries, where women may feel pressure to prove their competence without asking for assistance.
• Employees and Professional Growth: For women in the workplace, asking for help can be a key driver of professional growth. ?Studies show that employees who actively seek feedback and support from colleagues and supervisors are more likely to achieve higher performance ratings and receive promotions. ?However, women are often less likely to request this feedback, which can slow their career progress. ? Embracing the practice of asking for help can lead to more significant opportunities for advancement and skill development.
• For Stay-at-Home Moms and Working Women: Whether managing a household or balancing employment and family, asking for help is equally vital. ?Studies show that women often take on the majority of caregiving responsibilities, leading to higher levels of stress and burnout. ? Seeking support can alleviate this pressure and contribute to better mental and emotional health.

Breaking Down the Barriers

What’s holding us back from asking for help? Common barriers include fear of rejection, a desire to maintain control, and a belief that we should be able to handle everything on our own. These internalized beliefs can be difficult to recognize, but they are obstacles that can—and should—be overcome.

One effective way to break down these barriers is by changing our mindset about asking for help. ?Instead of viewing it as a weakness, we need to see it as a strength—an essential skill that contributes to our growth, resilience, and success. ?This shift in perspective can empower us to reach out without fear or hesitation.

Join Us for a Transformative Series of Events

We’re thrilled to collaborate with Ashley Usiskin Founder of ‘The Gift of Help,’ whose course is featured on Simon Sinek’s Optimism Company platform. ?Ashley’s insights, drawn from both personal and professional experiences, have transformed the way people think about asking for help. ?During this event, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from his expertise, connect with like-minded women, and walk away with practical strategies that you can apply in your daily life.

Get Your Tickets Now

Asking for help is not just important—it’s essential for your growth, success, and holistic well-being. By understanding more about the barriers that hold you back, you can unlock new opportunities, build stronger relationships, and achieve your goals with greater ease and confidence.

Can't attend in person?

We're finalising dates to hold two more of these sessions, online and in Eindhoven.

• Online Event: Coming in mid-November. Join the Waitlist Here
• Eindhoven Event: End of October. Join the Waitlist Here

Empower yourself to thrive, and take the first step towards a more fulfilling and connected life!

References

1. General Reluctance to Ask for Help: CivicScience. (2022). Asking for Help May Be a Privilege. Retrieved from CivicScience
2. Mental Health and Stress: American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Stress in America: The State of Our Nation. Retrieved from APA
3. Career Advancement and Gender Disparities: LeanIn.Org . (2021). Women in the Workplace 2021. Retrieved from LeanIn.Org
4. Entrepreneurship and Leadership: Kauffman Foundation. (2019). The Kauffman Index of Growth Entrepreneurship. Retrieved from Kauffman Foundation
5. Workplace Dynamics and Competence: Journal of Applied Psychology. (2015). The Influence of Help-Seeking Behavior on Performance and Promotions. Retrieved from Journal of Applied Psychology
6. Employee Performance and Feedback: Harvard Business Review. (2018). Why Employees Don’t Ask for Feedback. Retrieved from Harvard Business Review
7. Caregiving Responsibilities and Burnout: National Alliance for Caregiving. (2020). Caregiving in the U.S. 2020. Retrieved from National Alliance for Caregiving