Anxiety is one of the worst things a person can feel and suffer from. But while feeling anxious about a certain thing is something that we all go through in our everyday life, struggling with frequent panic attacks is a completely different thing. It is an issue that most anxiety sufferers live with it.
Feeling anxious and suffering from anxiety are two completely different things. Statistics show that anxiety disorders affect an estimated 40 million adults in the U.S. in a year, which once again proves that anxiety is the most common mental health condition around the world.
If you don’t struggle with anxiety yourself, chances are that someone of your close friends or family does. And while it can be truly hard for them to open up and share their problems with you, it can be also hard for you to figure out how you can help them.
I know exactly how that feels… I’ve been through the same situation with my brother. That’s why I am here.
Loving someone who has anxiety isn’t easy, but it’s the most important thing that you can do for this person. You are all that this person has. So, be there for them.
Here are 10 tips that will help you figure out how to get through these difficult times together:
1. Give them space to breathe. People who struggle with anxiety are easily overwhelmed by almost everything. They are constantly aware of everything that is happening around them. The only thing you can do to help them is to give them the time and space to breathe and just be. Pressuring them into doing something won’t do any good. If anything, it can cause even more damage.
3. Remind them who they really are. Let them know that their anxiety does not define them. Help them remember who they really are deep down. Remind them of their traits. The traits that you’ve fallen in love with. The traits that define them as a human being. Appreciate their good sides.
4. Try to put yourself in their shoes and understand their situation. I know it’s not easy, but give your best to do it. Put all of your prejudice aside and try to understand their situation. Even if it seems irrational and confusing. Dealing with anxiety is an incredibly difficult thing. Make sure to always remind them that they have your unconditional support.
5. Listen to them. Not with the intent to reply, but with the intent to understand. Listen to their voice. Pay attention to their tone. The way their lips start to quiver and the way their voice gets shaky. Feel their pain. Connect with them. Open up your heart and embrace their troubled soul.
6. Let them know that you are there for them. Stay by their side. No matter what. You may feel exhausted at times, but that is nothing compared to the pain and confusion these people feel on a daily basis. Struggling with anxiety is a long, difficult process. Be patient with them. They need you.
7. Don’t ask them if they are fine when it is more than obvious that they aren’t. There is no need to force them to tell you how they feel when it is more than clear that they are not fine. You can see it for yourself… You can feel it. When a loved one is going through a hard time, be there for them. Your presence is more than enough.
8. Understand that they are trying their best, even if it doesn’t seem that way. It is not like they enjoy being in this state of mind. These people fight hard, even though it may not always show… In times like these, they could really use your support. Recognize their efforts and encourage them to keep moving forward.
9.Know that their sudden mood swing has nothing to do with you. Don’t take their inner monologues so personally. They are not ignoring you. There is a lot going on inside their minds. Anxiety can be truly tiresome and confusing at times. Show some understanding.
10.Love them unconditionally. Whatever happens, always do your best to show them that you care. At times, they will be hard to love, but that is when you have to love them harder. When this happens, remind yourself that they need you. They need you to give them strength. They need you to be there for them. They need you to fight alongside them.
