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Originally Posted by KellyJo
For all my life i've been seen as the "strong one" or "the tough one" (not just among my family but my friends too) because i appear to handle things better than the others. I feel like im taken for granted because I listen and try my hardest to help others with their problems, be there for them when they need me, and rarely ask for help in return.
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I don't think that people are deliberately taking advantage of you, but I do think you may need to learn how to set boundaries with others in regards to how much emotional investment you're going to give them. Here's the thing... If you choose to help someone you have to go into it with no expectations in return. They should do the same for you, but if you count on that, you'll end up disappointed. There is nothing wrong with you politely saying no. If they ask why just say you have to many of your own problems that you're dealing with.
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I often keep my problems to myself and deal with them on my own because I dont want to burden others with them.
I think people misinterpret this though, and end up thinking that i dont have problems. when in reality i do.
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Because you keep your problems to yourself and deal with them on your own... It's reasonable that people are unaware that you do have problems or need help. So their not misinterpreting.. it's they don't know.
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when i do open up I feel as if its not taken seriously because theyre used to my being the one who doesnt break down.
How does one get help for their problems if theyre percieved differently than others?
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I think it's a matter of you finding a friend that you perceive to be on the same maturity level as you. Someone that you can open upto and will take you seriously when you need to talk. If you don't have a friend like that you may need to rely on people in the forum, a councilor, parent etc.
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Its discouraging to have your problems being underrated by those you care about. Im so tired of being the one that keeps things together. Im exhausted and overwhelmed. How do i rid myself of that burden without hurting those around me? Help? 
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It's reasonable that you would be exhausted and overwhelmed, and that's why, I think, you should look at establishing boundaries with others in what you can/can't do for them so you aren't overwhelmed.