According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, over 40 million adults in the United States have an anxiety disorder. That equates to over 19% of the adult U.S. population. It is likely safe to say that you know someone dealing with anxiety, whether it happens to be severe or not.
Maybe that person (or people) hides their struggles well. Maybe you know someone else who is having a harder time managing their symptoms.
Whatever the case, it is important to support the people in your life who are trying to keep the symptoms of anxiety at bay when life seems so uncertain, overwhelming, and even scary.
Thankfully, there are things you can do to help and support someone with anxiety.
1. Educate Yourself
Because anxiety is such a common mental health issue, it is far too easy to believe stereotypes and misinformation. If someone in your life is truly dealing with anxiety, one of the best things you can do to start supporting them is to educate yourself on what anxiety really is, including some of the common symptoms. This will make it easier to better understand what your loved one is going through.
2. Be an Active Listener
In addition to doing research about anxiety, be sure to ask the person dealing with it what you can do to help. This is a condition that impacts people differently. So, be patient and understanding as you listen.
By creating a safe space where your loved one can open up freely, you will already be doing quite a bit for them. Be sure not to judge their feelings, even if you do not understand them. Rather, validate them and offer reassurance. Remind them that they are not alone in their struggle.
3. Be Encouraging
Anxiety can easily become overwhelming. So many people struggle with the “what ifs” or the uncertainties of life and it creates intense fear.
Encourage your loved ones with anxiety to focus on the things they can control, rather than what they cannot. Try to avoid using phrases like “just relax” or “get over it.” To those dealing with anxiety, the fear is not just in their head. It feels very real, and it is important to acknowledge that so you can be mindful of your encouraging words.
4. Offer Practical Support
If someone in your life is overwhelmed by anxiety, consider practical ways in which you can take something off their plate. Offer to do chores, run errands, or tackle other tasks for them that might be eating up a lot of time.
If they’re not necessarily overwhelmed by their schedule, maybe they just need a distraction. Participate in hobbies and engaging activities with them that will distract them from their fear and give them something to look forward to.
5. Practice Self-Care
Even if you do not struggle with anxiety yourself, it is essential to prioritize your overall well-being when you are helping someone who is struggling. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and protecting your mental wellness as you encourage a loved one dealing with anxiety. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and prioritizing your own health will make it easier to take care of someone else.
6. Encourage Professional Help
Anxiety is often very manageable. However, it is not something anyone should have to “figure out” on their own. Working with a mental health professional is typically the best way to understand the root of anxiety while learning how to manage symptoms and eventually overcome it.
As a friend or family member, be sure to encourage your loved one to work with a psychologist so they can start to take charge of their mental well-being. If they are not sure where to start, feel free to have them reach out. Our psychologists are ready to set up a consultation at any time for those in need.