Most people suffer from anxiety at some point in their lives. It can be experienced as a constant and overwhelming feeling of fear, worry, and dread. Anxiety disorders are characterized by feelings of fear, nervousness, or unease that are so severe that they interfere with daily activities.
From worrying about your health to being overly concerned about everyday situations, anxiety can impact your life in many ways. If you have a loved one with anxiety, it’s important to know how to support them through their journey. Here are eight ways to support someone who has anxiety:
Listen Without Judgment
Anxiety can make a person irrational and paranoid. So it’s important that when your friend or family member is talking about their fears and worries, they don’t feel judged (even if they say something absurd). “Avoid saying things like ‘that’s ridiculous,’ or ‘what’s wrong with you?’ These comments will only make them feel worse.
Instead, acknowledge how difficult their situation is and that you’re on their side no matter what happens in their lives. Let them talk and know what they’re going through is real to them. It will help build trust between the two of you so that they’ll be more willing to open up when the time comes again.
Ask if They Are Okay
It can be hard for family members and friends to know if a loved one is having an anxiety attack. But sometimes, it’s obvious that something is wrong — they might look panicked or upset, or they could seem like they’re in physical pain. If so, don’t hesitate to ask if they need help.
If your loved one isn’t doing well, ask them if they need help. It’s important to let them know that you care about their health and wellbeing and want to see them get better. If they say yes, offer to come over or give them a call later in the day to see how things are going. If they say no, or don’t respond, don’t press the issue — just let it go for now.
Distract Them from Their Worries by Helping Them Relax
Anxiety disorders are often accompanied by symptoms such as insomnia and muscle tension, making it difficult for someone with anxiety to fall asleep at night. It can also make it hard for people to relax and unwind. They may have trouble sleeping or concentrating on things that used to be enjoyable. Helping them relax can help reduce their anxiety level and improve their quality of life.
It often stems from worrying about what could go wrong in the future. If your loved one is worried about something specific, distract them by talking about something else or engaging in an activity that takes their mind off the problem for a while.
For example, you can try taking up activities together to bond over something fun — even if it’s just playing games at non GamStop slots UK, watching TV, or going through photos together.
Offer Reassurance When Needed
If your loved one has an attack of panic or worry, let them know that you’re there for them and that everything will be okay. When your loved one feels anxious, remind them that the feelings aren’t dangerous or harmful.
Anxiety is often linked to negative thinking patterns and beliefs about the world. It can be difficult for someone with anxiety to see this on their own. Hence, it’s helpful for family members to point out when their loved ones are overreacting to situations or making assumptions that don’t reflect reality.
When your loved one is struggling with an anxious thought or feeling, let them know everything will be okay. “I know it’s hard right now, but I’m here for you,” might be all they need to hear to feel better about the situation.
Encourage Relaxation Exercises
Simple breathing exercises can help reduce stress and anxiety by slowing the heart rate and reducing muscle tension. You can teach your loved one how to do deep breathing exercises by counting out loud while inhaling for five seconds and exhaling for seven seconds (or vice versa).
Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help if Needed
Some people may need professional help to manage their anxiety symptoms. If your loved one is reluctant to seek treatment, encourage them to talk with their doctor or mental health professional. You can also provide emotional support while they look into treatment options.
Anxiety disorders often coexist with other mental health issues such as depression and substance use disorders. So, your loved one might also benefit from therapy with a therapist trained in treating co-occurring disorders.
Be Willing to Go With Them to Therapy Sessions
Most people with anxiety don’t like going to therapy by themselves. They may feel embarrassed or uncomfortable sharing their feelings in front of another person. If this is the case, it’s important that you’re willing to go with them to help make things easier on them during this time. Therapy sessions are meant to be helpful, so don’t be afraid to go with them!
Maintain Clear Boundaries
It’s important that you maintain clear boundaries with your loved one who has anxiety, so they do not rely solely on you for support. You should still offer support when possible, but ensure it’s optional rather than required. If they don’t want your help, respect their wishes and move on with your life.
Provide Support to a Loved One With Anxiety
Anxiety can cause feelings of worry, nervousness, and unease. It’s normal to feel anxious when faced with a challenging situation. Still, anxiety disorders are different in that the feelings of anxiety are excessive and interfere with your day-to-day functioning.
It can be hard for a loved one to admit they need help. But if your friend or a family member has anxiety, you can be an important part of their recovery.