So, "How do you help a person with anxiety?" Feeling anxious is pretty normal, we all face it sometimes. Yet, for a few, it's extreme and can disrupt their everyday living. Recall the time when someone close was anxious, didn't you wish to aid them in any way possible? It can be quite a task knowing how to help someone with anxiety. Especially, when you're not clued in on what their struggle is. Let's journey through some helpful ways that you could be a pillar of support, offer peace, and be there for someone navigating through the turmoil of anxiety.
Find compassionate support for anxiety at Mercy Mental Health and Services. Our team is here to help you and your loved ones manage anxiety with understanding and care.
Understanding Anxiety: Why Does It Happen?
Anxiety can arise from various factors, and each person's experience is distinct. Some may feel anxious in certain situations. Some individuals might experience anxiety without a definite reason. Family dynamics can cause anxiety. This may cause individuals to question, "Why do I have anxiety around my family?" Anxiety's causes can be complex. But it often comes from stress, change, or specific fears. Knowing this can help people be patient and supportive. Anxiety can make people feel alone. Your empathy and kindness can help.
Being There for Someone with Anxiety
If a friend or loved one is anxious, just being there works wonders. Anxiety can make someone feel alone or misunderstood. By giving them your time, they see they're not alone. You don't need perfect answers; your company brings comfort. Saying "I support you" shows them that they are not alone in this struggle. Sometimes, just sitting quietly together helps. Inform them that anytime they want to share their thoughts or need a friend, you're there.
Don’t Force Someone to Talk to You
Sometimes, people dealing with anxiety might not feel prepared to discuss their concerns. Forcing someone to talk to you when they're not ready might heighten their stress. It's key to allow them room, waiting for them to approach you when they're at ease. When they're ready to spill, lend an ear without judging or attempting to mend their hurdles. Merely being an attentive listener demonstrates regard for their sentiments, offering immense solace.
Help Them Feel Safe and Understood
Building a haven where one is heard and seen helps a ton when dealing with friends battling anxiety. Anxiety can make people wonder if they're judged or if their fear is unreal. Assure them their feelings matter, even if you can't fully grasp them. Say things like, "I support you," reassuring them you're there to help them in any manner required. Ignore phrases like, “Relax” or “It's in your mind,” which can invalidate them. A bit of understanding and acceptance can massively transform the world for an overwhelmed person.
Offer Gentle Reassurance Instead of Advice
When someone feels anxious, they may not seek advice. Providing solutions can seem dismissive or invalidate their emotions. Instead of directing them, express your understanding with phrases like, “I support you” or “I’m here for you.” If your husband struggles to grasp your anxiety, remind him of your support. It may comfort him more than trying to "fix" it.
Help Them Relax and Distract in Healthy Ways
Sometimes, distractions serve as a useful method to ease someone's anxiety. Simple activities can be beneficial. Examples are walking, engaging in a game, or viewing a film together. Encourage them to relax. But don't pressure anyone to talk if they prefer silence. Small gestures, like inviting them for coffee, can comfort them. So can sitting quietly beside them. They cause no stress.
Don’t Take It Personally If They Pull Away
Anxiety may lead individuals to seek solitude or take a step back. This doesn’t imply that they’re angry with you or devalue your support. Those experiencing anxiety often feel isolated and may distance themselves from others. Even if it feels like they’ve attacked you verbally or through actions, keep in mind that their anxiety is the issue, not you. Reassure them that you remain available whenever they feel ready to connect.
Gently Encourage Seeking Professional Help
At times, professional assistance is essential for managing anxiety. If anxiety greatly affects someone's life, suggesting they see a counselor or therapist may help. Don't push them. But you can softly suggest, "Maybe talking to someone could help." Reaching out for help is a significant step, and it can feel easier if they know they have support.
Understand That Supporting Them Takes Time and Patience
Helping someone with anxiety can feel daunting, particularly if you don’t notice quick progress. It demands time and calmness to support someone with anxiety. Simple acts can show "I’m here for you." This can have a big impact, even if the results aren't immediate. Keep in mind that your support matters, even if the individual doesn’t articulate it.
Avoid Judgments and Don’t Try to “Fix” Their Anxiety
Anxiety cannot simply be “fixed” with words or advice. Avoid remarks that may lead to feeling judged, like, “It’s all in your head” or “Just relax.” Such phrases can invalidate their experience. Instead, say, “I’m here for you,” and emphasize helping friends feel accepted and understood.
Encourage Them to Create a Plan for Managing Anxiety
Assisting someone with anxiety can give them more control. It can help them develop a strategy to cope. They need not disclose every detail. But brainstorming coping methods, like deep breathing or journaling, can help. For example, if my husband doesn't understand my anxiety, he could suggest coping strategies for us to try together. That could assist us in feeling more connected.
Set Boundaries for Yourself, Too
Helping someone with anxiety is valuable, but prioritizing your own needs is essential. Establish boundaries if you feel overwhelmed. Keep in mind that it’s perfectly fine to step back when necessary. Your well-being matters. By caring for yourself, you can support others without getting exhausted.
Remind Them They’re Not a Burden
People with anxiety often think they are a burden. Remind them that their feelings are real. They are not a burden. Encouraging phrases such as "I’m here for you" or "You’re not alone" truly assist. These words comfort them. Unconditional kindness shows acceptance. This kindness probably helps friends feel less lonely. They feel less isolated.
Final Thoughts on How Do You Help a Person with Anxiety?
Assisting someone with anxiety doesn’t demand elaborate gestures or flawless phrases. The key is being present. Show kindness, patience, and understanding. Many ways exist to show support. They include giving gentle reassurance and encouraging them to get help if needed. It’s acceptable if you lack all the answers; sometimes, merely saying, "I’m here for you," suffices. Your empathy and eagerness to listen offer comfort to someone with anxiety. It can assist them in feeling more connected.
FAQs
Q. What can I tell a person dealing with anxiety?
Simple and supportive words like "I support you" or "I'm here for you" are comforting. Avoid language that dismisses feelings. Words like "Calm down" or "It's all in your head" may lead to misunderstandings. Misunderstanding hurts relationships.
Q. What if my support feels like it’s not helping?
Helping someone with anxiety requires time. Even if they don't show quick progress, your compassion and patience matter. Keep supporting them without anticipating swift outcomes.
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