We live in a world that praises independence the self-made success story, the lone warrior, the quiet achiever who never needed anyone. But beneath that story of strength lies a quieter truth: no one heals alone. Self-sufficiency is often painted as a virtue. And in many ways, it is —being resilient, capable, and self-directed are beautiful qualities. But when “I can handle it on my own” becomes our shield against vulnerability, it can quietly become an obstacle to true h