How To Deal With A Person Who Has Extreme Anxiety?

Unraveling the Mystery: How to Ease the Burden of Extreme Anxiety

In this fast-paced world, where stress levels are skyrocketing, it’s no surprise that a significant chunk of the population grapples with anxiety. However, dealing with someone who experiences extreme anxiety levels can feel like navigating through a minefield—tiptoeing around, afraid to trigger an explosion. Yet, with a sprinkle of patience, a dash of understanding, and the right approach, aiding someone in this battle becomes not just possible, but deeply rewarding.

Understanding the Beast: What is Anxiety?

Before diving into how to assist, it’s crucial to get to grips with what anxiety really is. In layman’s terms, it’s the body’s natural response to stress, fear, or apprehension about what’s to come. While it’s commonplace to feel anxious about job interviews or first dates, extreme anxiety can be debilitating, impairing one’s ability to function in daily life. Recognizing this distinction is the first step in providing meaningful support.

Strategies to Support Someone with Extreme Anxiety

1. Listen Without Judgement: Sometimes, all it takes to lighten someone’s burden is an open ear. Listen intently, without trying to fix them or offering unsolicited advice. Remember, empathy is key!

2. Educate Yourself: Walk a mile in their shoes. Familiarizing yourself with anxiety disorders can lead to better understanding and patience, two ingredients essential in supporting someone.

3. Encourage Professional Help: There’s only so much a friend or family member can do. Gently encourage seeking help from a therapist or counselor—an objective, trained professional can make a world of difference.

4. Establish a Safe Space: Let them know they’re not alone. Creating a non-judgmental environment where they feel safe to express their feelings can be incredibly soothing.

5. Mind Your Language: Avoid phrases like “just relax” or “it’s all in your head”. They might be well-intentioned but can come off as dismissive. Instead, opt for phrases that validate their feelings.

6. Be Patient: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and overcoming anxiety is no overnight feat. Show patience and understand that progress may be slow and non-linear.

7. Learn Their Triggers: Yes, it’s a bit like walking on eggshells, but being aware of potential anxiety triggers can help in avoiding unnecessary stressors.

The Role of Lifestyle and Self-care

Encouraging a healthy lifestyle can also play a pivotal role in managing anxiety. This doesn’t mean turning into a personal drill sergeant, but rather gently suggesting activities that reduce stress:

• Regular Exercise: A natural anxiety killer, exercise releases endorphins, the body’s feel-good hormones.
• Balanced Diet: You are what you eat, goes the saying, and it’s true when it comes to managing anxiety. A well-nourished body can combat stress more effectively.
• Quality Sleep: Easier said than done, but essential. Encourage a regular sleep schedule and a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation.

In the grand scheme of things, being there for someone struggling with extreme anxiety is about striking the right balance between encouragement and space. Offering support without overstepping boundaries, and being patient while they navigate their path to recovery, is critical. Remember, though you can’t walk the journey for them, your presence can make their path less daunting. With compassion, understanding, and the aforementioned strategies, you can be a beacon of hope for someone caught in the throes of anxiety.