How to sign "help" in ASL

How to Sign "Help"

“Help” is signed by placing your dominant hand (thumbs-up) on top of your non-dominant palm, then lifting both hands upward:

• Form a thumbs-up with your dominant hand.
• Place it on the open palm of your non-dominant hand (palm facing up).
• Lift both hands together slightly forward or upward.

Watch a demo here

Tips

• Use directional movement: toward yourself = “help me,” toward others = “help you.”
• Keep the motion smooth and intentional.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting the thumbs-up — it’s key to the meaning.
• Only moving one hand — both hands should move together.

Think: “Helping hand — lifted together.”