Hugs Gracie, I cuddle W all the time and until now he still needs my help to go to sleep.
I know what you mean. Our mums group just had a get together the other day. It was during his naptime and everyone was staring at me when I was trying to rock him to sleep.
Sometimes the pressure to have self settled bub can be so high, but I agree with others ... just do what's right for you. After all, you're his mum and you know what's best for him.
There is this book that I've been reading, No cry sleep solution by elizabeth pantley.
I say it's worth to read. I am trying to implement some of the techniques. Some people had quick win with it, while other said that it takes time and we need to be patient. After all it doesnt involved crying.