As a wheelchair user you may constantly need to ask for help, something which a lot of people are not comfortable with. Most people value their independence and do not like asking for help. But what do you do after a spinal cord injury which forces you into a wheelchair? How do you learn to ask for help? In this article we look at how to ask for help without feeling as though you are burdening your loved ones.

Be Organized

Before asking for help make a main list of all the chores you will need help in, meaning everything you will not be able to do in your current state. In the list, indicate how often you will need help doing the chores. By listing the chores, your family and friends will be able to organize themselves and help you, without feeling inconvenienced. Make sure that your list is exhaustive. Here is a sample list you can make:

• Mow the lawn once a month
• Do the laundry once a week
• Shopping twice per week

Make A List Of People Who Can Help And How They Can Help

If you do not have access to a dedicated caregiver, then you may need to ask help from different people. Take note of who has offered to help and when they can help. For instance, if you have a friend who is available once per month, you can ask them to help you with the lawn. You need to note when each person is available and how they can help. Match the list of chores to the person who has offered to help then contact the person for a commitment.

You need to call all the people in your list so that they can commit to helping you. Also, calling helps you get a confirmation on their availability. Be very specific when asking for help. For instance, if you need grocery shopping every Wednesday, make sure you state so.

What Makes Asking For Help Hard?

Although they say asking for help never hurts anyone, it is one of the hardest things to do especially if you are independent minded. Here are some reasons why people find it hard to ask for help:

Fear Of Being Told No – It takes a lot of courage to ask for help and you need remember that when people say no, it is not about you but about them. So, it is important that you don’t dwell on the people that will say no.

Being Seen As Incapable – Asking for help will make you feel as if you are incompetent. No one wants to feel that way. You can overcome these feelings by asking people practicing helping out. For instance, if someone is practicing mowing the lawn, it will be easier to get help from them.

You Don’t Want To Burden People – When asking for help you will feel like you are burdening the people whose help you require. Asking for help requires a mind change. Most people are honored to be part of your life and they will not feel burdened by helping out a disabled person.