My usual canned opening line is ‘Hi I’m X and I’m inquiring about your Y?’ Or just ‘Hi, I’m after some Information/advice about Y’

So basically that greets them and gives a brief idea with an opening to ask what they can help you with more specifically, allowing you to go into more detail and explain the problem.

I wouldn’t say I was great with people or the phone but I sometimes do have to cold call or email a lot of organisations.

Edit: Oh unless this is about something like counselling. Then I guess just say ‘I need help and someone to talk to.’ And they will ask what with and you can give them an area of struggle, lay out a situation in dot points, or tell them what caused you to seek help etc. Something very basic gets them to ask further questions and gets the ball rolling

First up: Go on you for thinking about reaching out. I'm really proud of you. the first interaction is always so awkward. Still is for me 6 years into therapy. Dont over think it! just say "hey my name is dan, I work at X and I need someone to talk to".

Not dumb at all. I reached out to my EAP earlier this year. I'm a strong independent woman, doing all the shit. But I just needed someone to listen while i laid my cards on the table and help me reshuffle the deck to an order. My initial phone call was quick, then my appointment with the counsellor was the next day. It really helped, and I've since told everyone I know to use it. So use it!