Anxiety is among the worst possible things a person could be going through.
But while being anxious about particular things is something that we all go through on an everyday basis, struggling with recurring panic attacks is another story completely. It is a problem most people with chronic anxiety have to live with.
Anxiousness and anxiety are different things. Data has shown that anxiety disorders are affecting around 40 million people in the U.S. in a year, and it is the most common mental health condition globally.
If you aren’t having issues with anxiety yourself, it is likely that someone close to you does. And while it can be difficult for them to share these problems with you, it can also be difficult for you to understand how you can help them.
Loving someone with anxiety is not easy, but it is the most important thing for this person.
You are all she or he has. So you must be there for them.
Here are 9 tips that will guide you in figuring out how to make it through these hard times together:
1. Give them space
Those who struggle with anxiety are easily overburdened by almost all negative things. They deeply feel everything that is happening to them and around them. The best thing you can do to help is to give them the space they need to just be. Pushing them into action won’t help the situation if things are rushed. It can even make the problem worse.
2. Remind them of their worth
Remind them that their condition does not define who they are. Aid them in understanding who they are deep down. Remind them of all the things that make them special. The things that made you fall in love with them. The things that define them as a human being. Appreciate their core being.
3. Try to be more understanding by putting yourself in their skin
It may not be easy, but you must do your best to help. Put all your preconceptions aside and try to be understanding of what they’re going through. Even if it seems confusing. Battling anxiety is an extremely difficult experience. Always remind them that they can count on you no matter what.
4. Be a good listener
Listen to them, not with the intent to reply, but to understand their concerns better. Listen to what they have to say and pay attention to their tone. Their quivering lips, the shakiness in their voice. Feel what they feel and connect with them more intimately. Open your heart and take in their troubled soul.
5. Reassure them that you’ll always be by their side
Stand by them no matter the circumstance. You may feel overwhelmed at times, but that doesn’t compare to the suffering and confusion they are chronically dealing with. The fight against anxiety is a long and strenuous process. Patience is key here.
6. Don’t ask them if they’re well if it is obvious that they are not
You can make that judgment yourself. You can feel it. When a loved one is going through a rough period in their life, be next to them. Your presence matters more to them than anything else.
7. Understand that they are doing what they can, even if it doesn’t come across that way
It’s not like they’re having a great time being in this situation. These people are struggling even if they don’t always show it. In times like these, your support is the most important thing for them. Recognize that they’re making an effort and give them a push to keep moving forward through encouragement.
8. Their mood swings have nothing to do with you
Their inner monologues are not a sign that they’re ignoring you. They have a lot to deal with in their heads. Be more understanding because anxiety can be a crushing experience.
9. Show them unconditional love
No matter what happens, always do the best you can to show them that they matter. Sometimes it will be hard for them to show their love, but that is exactly when you have to show them yours. When this happens, remind yourself of how much they need you. They need your stability and strength. They need your presence. They need you as an ally against this gruesome enemy.
Can you or a loved one relate to this situation? Let us know by joining the conversation in the comments, and please share this article if you enjoyed the read.
