Anxiety can be an overwhelming experience for everyone. It does not only affect those who have anxiety, but it may also sometimes affect the people around them. Understanding how to deal with someone with anxiety is important for creating an environment of comfort and protection. Whether it’s a friend, member of the family, or colleague, your help can make a significant difference in their journey of controlling their anxiety.
This article will explore practical guidelines and techniques to help you be a compassionate helper. By understanding the dos and don’ts of helping someone with anxiety, you can offer the right help. You can also encourage them to consult a mental health professional for the right treatment.
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Symptoms of Anxiety
However, people with anxiety present different signs and symptoms of anxiety. Every person can have other anxiety disorders and anxiety triggers. Some people show mental or emotional symptoms and some may have physical symptoms.
Identify the specific signs or symptoms of anxiety of someone you care about. So, you can help them in managing anxiety.
- Feeling nervous or worried often
- Trouble focusing or thinking clearly
- Feeling restless or on edge
- Fast heartbeat or breathing quickly
- Sweating or trembling
- Feeling tired easily
- Trouble sleeping, like waking up often
- Stomach problems, like feeling sick or having an upset stomach
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Fear of something bad happening
Dos to Deal With Someone With Anxiety
If you want to support someone with anxiety, you can use the following techniques to reduce their anxiety. Sometimes, you don’t even know if your friend or family member has anxiety. In this case, you should maintain good relations with the persons you care about.
Do understand their anxiety symptoms
Take time to learn about anxiety and its signs and symptoms. This will assist you in understanding what they are going through. Everyone has different types of anxiety. Some people may also face anxiety and panic attacks on specific occasions.
When you realize what anxious people feel, you can be more patient and supportive. Remember that their mental health condition is not good and need help.
Do present for them
Being there for someone who experiences anxiety includes your time and attention. If you want to help your loved one with anxiety, show that you are always present for them. Sometimes, simply being with them, even in silence, can make a big difference.
People with anxiety disorders may not want to seek help. They usually don’t discuss their feelings of anxiety. But when you’re constantly present for someone, it may be a chance that they talk to you. Your presence can give them comfort and calm.
Do listen to how they want to be supported
Anxious people usually don’t ask for help. However some people with stress and anxiety may want to feel supported. Avoidance can make their anxiety worse.
They want help in a nonjudgmental way. Ask them what helps them feel better. Many people with anxiety may need advice or treatment, while others just need someone to listen. Listening is one of the best ways to support someone you love. It provides emotional support.
Do keep open communication
It’s important to communicate openly about how they’re feeling. Ask questions gently and be prepared to concentrate. This will help build trust. When they feel that you’re concerned, their anxious thoughts cool down. It allows them to express their worries and speak about what’s troubling them.
Do look after yourself
Supporting a person with anxiety can be hard. Make sure you take care of your well-being, too. Rest, relax, and find ways to help your loved ones. By staying active, you’ll be in a better position to help.
Don’ts to Deal With Someone With Anxiety
When you’re helping someone with anxiety, you may do things that can affect the anxious person negatively. When we are so eager to help our loved ones, we do some negative things unintentionally. Try to avoid such things for a calm and comfortable environment.
Don’t constantly talk about their anxiety
It’s essential not to talk about their problem always. Constantly bringing it up could make them feel more stressed. Let them speak about it when they are ready. Instead, try to have usual conversations and communicate about things that make them feel better.
When they speak about their problem themselves, they offer to help them. It may make them feel that they have practical support.
Don’t trigger their anxieties
Avoid situations or topics that trigger their anxiety. If you are unaware of what triggers them, ask gently. By avoiding these triggers, you can reduce their anxiety attacks. It makes them feel more secure and comfortable around you.
Don’t pressure them for any task
Don’t push them to do something they’re now not ready for. Pressuring them can grow their anxiety. Be patient and give them the time they want. Encourage them, but always respect their limits.
Don’t get frustrated
It can be hard when a person you care about is struggling with anxiety. However, getting frustrated won’t help. Stay calm and patient. Remember, they’re not trying to be difficult. But their panic disorders are forcing them to respond this way. Your understanding can help them face their fears and remove them.
Don’t expect sudden changes
Anxiety doesn’t go away quickly. Don’t expect them to change overnight. Healing takes time. Celebrate small steps and improvements. Be patient with the process. Continue offering help throughout the journey. Encourage them to seek professional help.
Conclusion
Dealing with someone with anxiety requires patience, understanding, and compassion. By understanding the ways to provide help, you may create a safe space for them to manage their anxiety. Remember to be present, listen to their needs, and keep open communication. Avoid triggers and do not expect sudden changes. Anxiety takes time to heal.
Support from friends and family can help many people. However expert help is also essential. By being kind and patient, you can make a huge difference in their journey towards better mental health.