My family has lived in the same house since 1998. Over the years some things have become worn or broken. If we can fix it ourselves we do. Other times I have to confess that we just live with things as they are, such as that sticky kitchen drawer (that you have to pull open “just so”). Recently my wife and I made up a list of repairs and hired a handyman. In one afternoon all of these inconveniences were repaired. The bill was reasonable, too. Over coffee that night my wife remarked, “Why in the world didn’t we call someone sooner?”

This got me pondering similar things clients in my support groups say to me like, “I wish I learned this stuff years ago. My life would be a lot different right now.” Or, “I knew I needed to get some help but I kept putting it off. Then I got in trouble and the judge sent me here.” The delay in seeking assistance sometimes comes at a great cost-legally, financially, and personally.

Family Services is in the home improvement business. No, we don’t do plumbing or carpentry. Our craft is to improve the most important part of a home-the people living in it! To put it simply, our counselors assist people in using the “tools” they need to “make repairs” in their home life. Some of the common issues that people seek help with are substance abuse, marriage conflicts, the loss of a loved one, divorce, depression, anxiety, family tension, problems at school or work, low self-esteem, stress, gambling and children’s issues. Our counselors do “custom work” too, by making a plan that takes into account all of the personalized needs of each person, couple, or family.

Like my sticky kitchen drawer there are issues in homes that people put off addressing or ignore altogether. But why make life harder than it has to be? Life becomes so much easier when things work they way they are supposed to work. Whether it’s a little “fixer upper” or major renovation is required, help is out there for the asking.

Ian Eastman, M.A. promotes the health and well-being of the community at Family Services of Warren County, Inc.-a charitable agency that provides counseling, substance abuse services, and support groups. Family Services asks that you consider supporting its work during Warren Gives on May 13.