"The Lord God said: 'It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper for him, worthy of him.'”
(Genesis 2:18)

The verse above is not only in the context of a life partner, but also explains an important fact that underlies the needs of human life, namely relationships. To live a healthy life and grow physically, mentally, and spiritually, we need relationships. Relationships are not just social contact but have emotional bonds with other people. On the other hand, an isolated or closed life will result in physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Humans do need each other. We were not created to be superman. The Word of God in Galatians 6:2 says, “Help bear your burdens! Thus you fulfill the law of Christ.” In James 5:16a it is written: "Therefore confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed..."

Based on this need, counseling is here to provide itself as a companion, listener, mentor, and even teacher for parents or students, so that the process of 'chaos' inside stops and replaces the process of 'life'. Counseling offers a helpful relationship.

However, reality shows that when we feel there is an emotional problem, what do we do? Are we willing to tell stories and ask for help from others? It is much easier when we are physically ill. We can easily go to the doctor, without shame and fear. Sharing emotional problems with others is not an easy thing for most people. Some feel they seem weak when they have to ask for help from others. Others fear the possibility of bad judgment from others.

Others feel that there is no point in asking others for help, and there are many other reasons. These reasons are normal because not everyone is ready to ask for help. However, this view needs to be improved. Asking others for help does not mean we are weak. By coming to a friend or counselor, it means we realize that we need someone else to help see the problem more clearly. They are the people who can help see the blind spots (areas we can't see) within us.

When we are suffocated because of problems, generally we find it difficult to look at problems from the right perspective, so we usually react inappropriately. Some people choose to run away and avoid trouble, some others seek other forms of diversion such as more work and others.

After going through problem after problem with the right perspective and way, we will find ourselves as healthier and growing people. God wants us to be healthy and grow. Let's try to be a healthy person physically, mentally, and spiritually. Don't be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help, including counseling for health and growth, especially our children.

Nirmala Putri, S.Psi.
(IPEKA COUNSELING CENTER)