Whether you realize it or not, you probably have multiple people in your life who suffer from anxiety in one form or another. When it is someone you love, such a a family member or close friend, it can be hard to know how to act or how best to support them. The most important thing to remember is that they are still the same person, separate from their anxiety. However, there are some things you can do as their support system to help them manage their anxiety.
1. Let them know they can talk to you openly and honestly about their anxiety. Unfortunately there are stigmas surrounding anxiety and depression and it leads to those suffering to feel like they can’t be honest about what they are going through.
2. Be forgiving. Anxiety can cause some people to be more irritable or angry. Try to remember that when these instances occur, it could simply be their coping mechanism to the anxiety they feel.
3. Don’t guilt trip them. There will be times that their anxiety gets in the way of plans. They already feel guilty about this. When you guilt them about missing out on an activity (that they most likely hated missing as well) it only heightens their anxiety.
4. Be yourself. Your loved one with anxiety doesn’t want you walking around on pins and needles around them. Take your cues from them and allow them to be their own person separate from their anxiety.
Insight Child & Family Counseling has years of experience in helping people cope with their depression. For more information about our practice, visit us online at www.j9n.83e.myftpupload.com. Or give us a call at 972-426-9500.