Sometimes I find the whole "What do I need?" question and thinking about it too intellectual and have better success if I think more concrete and to ask, "What do I want?" instead. I figured out one day when I was alone that I wanted an ice cream cone and making that happen for myself was one of the best days/lessons in my life this far! Don't think so "galactic" like you are looking for THE answer. Find a single item that would make you feel better or that you want right this minute? Adults aren't so simple as children; if only because they have 20+ years more life experiences than children? While a hug might equal comfort to a child, an adult has a wider range of responses for what such intangible words as "need" and "want" can mean.