This is sometimes the case. But in my experience, a lot of people (strangers even) are more than willing to help you out. They are excited that you are learning

This is sometimes the case. But in my experience, a lot of people (strangers even) are more than willing to help you out. They are excited that you are learning their native language and want to see you succeed. A good portion of the time, what you're describing stems from the language learner defaulting to an easier version of communication or trying to avoid embarrassment.