What To Tell People With Anxiety?

Navigating the Complexities of Anxiety: What to Say and What Not to Say

Living with anxiety can be akin to riding a rollercoaster that never really stops. For friends and loved ones watching from the sidelines, figuring out the right words to say can be like walking through a minefield—every step counts, and one wrong move can set things off. Grappling with anxiety isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario, and thus, supporting someone through it isn’t, either. Here’s a blueprint to navigate this delicate dance with grace and empathy.

Speak Words of Support: The Do’s

1. Acknowledge Their Feelings

First things first, validate their emotions. A simple, “I see you’re going through a tough time, and I’m here for you,” can work wonders. It’s like offering a comforting embrace without the actual arms. Steer clear of the temptation to downplay their feelings or slap on a “it’ll all be okay” Band-Aid. Remember, it’s about them, not us.

2. Offer Specific Help

Instead of the vague “let me know if you need anything,” try putting forth concrete offers. Could be as simple as, “Hey, can I drop off dinner Thursday?” or “Need me to walk Mr. Snuffles this weekend?” It’s a double whammy – it shows you care and lightens their load.

3. Encourage Professional Help

This is a bit of a tightrope, but if done with finesse, it’s golden. Highlighting the benefits of professional help as a sign of strength, not weakness, can nudge someone in the right direction. Maybe, “I’ve heard great things about [Therapist’s Name]; want me to come with you for a chat?”

Pitfalls to Avoid: The Don’ts

1. “Just Relax”

Telling someone with anxiety to “just relax” is like telling someone with asthma to “just breathe” — if only it were that simple. Avoid trivializing their experience with oversimplified solutions. It’s not about willpower; it’s about finding the right tools and support.

2. Bombarding With Questions

Curiosity killed the cat, and in this case, it might just overwhelm the person with anxiety. Bombarding them with questions like “Why are you anxious?” can make them feel like they’re under a microscope. Keep it light; they’ll share when they’re ready.

3. Unsolicited Advice

Hold your horses before doling out advice. Unless you’re a certified professional or they’ve specifically asked for advice, it’s best to steer clear. Supportive listening is your best bet here.

Wrapping It Up: Being the Light in Their Tunnel

To sum it up, navigating the conversational waters with someone experiencing anxiety takes a bit of thoughtfulness, a dash of sensitivity, and a whole lot of empathy. It’s about being there without being overbearing, offering a listening ear without unsolicited advice, and encouraging professional help with a gentle hand. In doing so, we can be a beacon of light in what might seem like an endless tunnel for them. Remember, it’s the simple gestures that count—a validating nod, a comforting word, or just being present. By arming ourselves with the right approach, we not only uplift those grappling with anxiety but also chip away at the stigma surrounding mental health discussions. Let’s be the change, one word at a time.