Fault or Frustration?

I'd like your opinion - I'm genuinely confused on whether this is a fault of mine or a legitimate gripe.

I have a hard time asking for help. I tend to run myself into the ground rather than ask for help. (I know this part is a fault)

BUT - It seems in the last few months, there have been several times I've tried to take a few folks up on offers for help, and they are either too busy or don't follow through. This leaves me feeling validated in not asking for help. I am but one person in the throng that is their life, and, at the end of the day, they have too much on their plate.

Now, a couple of these times I might consider my fault because I waited too long and then asked on too short of a notice. Understandable. But for a couple others, it's been over a month, and my need hasn't been met.

I don't think it's fair to anyone I ask for help to explain that I only ask if my very livlihood depends on it. It seems too much pressure to put on someone. BUT - let it be known, that I don't ask for help... nearly ever. And, if I am, it's because I REALLY need it. I'm probably a lot more stressed, worried and drowning than I let on.

So, readership, (however small you may be since I've been lax in posting) is this my fault or a legitimate frustration? How do you handle asking for help, and are you successful?