Whoever we are, whatever family or friends we have, we will all have problems at some time. Whenever we are in a difficult situation we will need support from others.
It is good to feel we can deal with a situation by ourselves and using just our own resources. However it is a weakness to not be able to ask for help and support.
Asking for help and support is a sign of strength as it means we are not limited in our response to a situation. We can use our own resources but we are also not too big to let others help too.
Research evidence shows that when a family member or friend is trying to cope with someone's drinking or drug use, if they have access to and seek out support from others they will tend to be less stressed and show less signs of illness.
If you are isolated, contact people you may have lost touch with or find new avenues for meeting people, or contact agencies that help people in your situation.
If you have regular contact with other family or friends around you, seek support from those you trust to help you. You can seek help from those who you think will be most helpful. Different people will be helpful with different things and at different times. You can also contact agencies that help people in your situation.