How to Help Someone With Anxiety

Anxiety can be a debilitating condition, not only for those experiencing it, but also for their loved ones who want to help. Anxiety affects millions, transcending demographics. While mild anxiety is natural, chronic anxiety can be debilitating, impacting daily life. If someone you care about struggles with persistent anxiety that interferes with their social, work, or family life, there are ways to help. While you can't eliminate their anxiety entirely, there are many ways you can assist them in managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life. 

Educate Yourself

Understanding anxiety is crucial when helping someone cope. With over 40 million American adults affected, it's the most common mental health condition in the US. Despite being treatable, only one-third receive necessary care. Learn about various anxiety disorders, their causes, symptoms, and management techniques. Educate yourself alongside your loved one, as shared knowledge empowers you to navigate this journey together.

Validate Without Enabling

When supporting someone with anxiety, it's crucial to listen and validate their feelings without reinforcing anxious thoughts. Acknowledge their emotions, but gently point out when their fears seem unfounded. Avoid constant reassurance, as it may inadvertently prolong symptoms. Instead, suggest anxiety management techniques like deep breathing exercises to help them cope more effectively.

What to Avoid

When supporting someone with anxiety, steer clear of potential triggers. Avoid exposing them to crowded or overstimulating environments without warning. Refrain from sudden changes to plans, as this can unsettle anxious individuals. Be mindful of discussing anxiety-inducing topics without prior notice. Instead, focus on maintaining a calm, predictable atmosphere to help reduce anxiety symptoms and promote a sense of safety and comfort.

Don't Amplify Negative Thoughts

When supporting someone with anxiety, avoid reinforcing their fears or confirming worries without evidence. Instead, gently challenge their thought patterns by asking, "Why do you think that?" This approach helps ground their thoughts in reality. Steer conversations towards facts, offering alternative perspectives that counteract catastrophic thinking. By doing so, you can help break the cycle of anxiety and promote a more balanced outlook.

Don't Mask Your Emotions

Be transparent with them about your feelings and limitations in helping them. Acknowledge when unsure of the best approach, but express your willingness to learn and explore effective anxiety management techniques together. This honesty fosters trust and creates a safe space for open communication. You encourage your friend to do the same by showing vulnerability, strengthening your supportive bond.

Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help

Anxiety is highly treatable, often through lifestyle changes. However, when symptoms become severe, professional help may be necessary. A mental health expert can provide valuable information and treatment options for managing anxiety disorders. As a supportive friend or family member, recognize that your ability to help may be limited. Encouraging your loved one to seek professional guidance can be crucial in their journey towards better mental health.

Don't Forget to Take Care of Yourself Too

Supporting someone with anxiety can be emotionally taxing, especially in romantic relationships. While being there for your loved one is essential, remember that your well-being matters too. Practice self-care regularly to recharge and maintain your mental health. This balance will ultimately benefit you and your partner, ensuring a healthier, more sustainable relationship dynamic.

As you support someone with anxiety, remember that your patience and understanding are invaluable. If your loved one is struggling with chronic anxiety, it may be time to consider professional help. As a compassionate therapist team, we offer personalized anxiety treatment approaches centered on deeper healing work. Our in-office and virtual therapy services are tailored for those seeking support but facing time constraints. Together, we can create a safe space for your loved one to process their experiences and work towards lasting relief from anxiety. Book a consultation today to learn more about how we can help.