Knowing how to respond when someone you love is experiencing anxiety can be daunting. Yet, it is important to remember that likening their situation to your own or saying things like “it could be worse” could cause more harm than good and make them feel disregarded and ignored.
Here are a few steps you can take instead: 1. Reassure them of your presence.
Reassure them that you’re there for them
Witnessing someone you care for struggle with anxiety can be heartbreaking. They may withdraw from social interactions, hide from you, and behave out of character. Reassuring them they are not alone, and that support is available can provide much-needed comfort.
Remind them that their feelings are valid. Anxiety often makes people believe their thoughts and emotions are wrong or ridiculous; showing your support despite these uncomfortable sensations will provide great reassurance to your friend or relative.
Be wary when offering solutions to “fix” someone else’s anxiety; chances are you won’t have the skillset needed to solve their symptoms, making matters worse by trying. Instead, offer to assist them in finding a therapist or support group.
Remind them that you’re not judging them
Anxious people often feel judged or different. They must know their feelings are valid and symptoms aren’t their fault.
Attributing their anxiety or downplaying it only leads to more frustration for them and worsened mental health conditions. Instead, encouraging them to seek professional assistance for their situation is more helpful and should be met with pride when they start improving.
At times, it can be challenging to remain compassionate towards loved ones who seem stuck in their mental health struggles yet still make time to love and support them. Remembering they are more than their problems or anxieties should help. In addition, maintaining our wellbeing so we can better support loved ones is important; ensure you’re getting enough restful sleep and finding activities that bring pleasure for yourself and them. When talking with loved ones who experience mental health challenges, try not to compare your struggles against theirs but rather talk with other friends or family or seek professional advice about helping.
Remind them that they’re not alone
As mental illness remains highly stigmatized in society, it can be challenging to know how best to support someone struggling with anxiety. Sometimes, what we say or don’t say can be as crucial.
Reminding those you love of their humanity is essential when living with anxiety. Sometimes, the experience can make people feel like they’re the only ones affected, leading them to shame and embarrassment. Also important: clarify that anxiety is a real medical condition and should not cause feelings of guilt or shame in them.
Help them feel secure by providing resources and articles about anxiety as well as giving the name of a doctor or psychiatrist who specializes in anxiety treatment. Also, ensure you regularly reach out by phone or video and ask how they’re doing; this shows that you care and encourages them to keep going forward.
Encourage them to get help
Remind those you know with anxiety that their condition can be treated. Though they may not accept this statement during a panic attack or when their mind seems to race in circles, it’s worth repeating that treatment exists and should be considered an option.
Do your best not to offer “fixes.” As their loved one, you aren’t their therapist, and telling them what’s broken won’t help matters at all. Instead, point out ways they can help themselves – either through therapy, medication, coping strategies, or any other means – or taking better care of themselves through exercises like exercising regularly, eating healthily, and abstaining from drugs and alcohol use.
Remind them that your pride in their efforts and willingness to support them whenever necessary can be an excellent motivator and reminder that life is worth living, even though it takes hard work.
Conclusion:
Supporting someone with anxiety requires empathy and understanding. Encourage open communication, express your willingness to listen, and validate your feelings. Remind them that seeking professional help is a sign of strength. Offer reassurance, be patient, and create a safe space. Together, you can navigate the challenges anxiety brings, fostering a sense of connection and support.