What To Tell Someone Having An Anxiety Attack?

Navigating the Stormy Seas of Anxiety Attacks

When someone is caught in the whirlwind of an anxiety attack, it can feel like they’re stranded in the middle of a tumultuous sea. If you’re witnessing this, you might feel helplessly anchored ashore, wondering how on Earth you can throw them a lifeline. Well, fear not! With the right words and actions, you can become a beacon of support. But what exactly do you say? Let’s dive in and explore how to navigate these stormy seas with compassion and understanding.

Words That Can Anchor a Swaying Ship

Anxiety attacks can be overwhelming, making it hard for the person experiencing them to anchor themselves in reality. Your role? To be the lighthouse guiding them back to solid ground. But remember, it’s not just about what you say; it’s how you say it. Your tone of voice can be a soothing balm or an unexpected gust – so aim for calm and collected.

• “I’m here for you.” Simple, right? But oh, how powerful these words can be. They’re a sturdy handrail in the midst of a rocking boat. You’re acknowledging their struggle without overwhelming them with unnecessary fluff.

• “This is tough, but you’re tougher.” It’s a gentle nudge of empowerment, a reminder of their inner strength that the stormy seas have momentarily hidden from view.

• “Can you take a deep breath with me?” Sometimes, it’s about bringing them back to the basics of breathing. Anxiety can make you feel like you’re breathing through a straw. Guiding them to inhale and exhale can widen that straw back into a tunnel.

• “Let’s focus on what’s real.” Anxiety’s got a knack for making molehills look like mountains. Help them separate fact from fiction by gently discussing what’s actually happening in the moment, not what their anxiety is trying to sell them.

• “How can I support you?” This question is the Swiss Army knife of phrases. It’s practical, opening up a dialogue for them to express what they need, which might be something you hadn’t considered.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Remember, a ship doesn’t just need a captain barking orders; it needs a crew actively working together. Sometimes, actions can speak even louder than words:

• Stay with them. Simply being present can be a solid anchor.

• Breathe together. Demonstrating slow, deep breaths can lead by example.

• Listen. Let them steer the conversation where they need it to go.

• Avoid invalidating their feelings. Saying things like “It’s not a big deal” might cause their ship to rock even more fiercely.

• Seek professional help if needed. Sometimes, a more experienced sailor is needed to navigate through the storm. Encouraging them to seek therapy or counseling could be a valuable step.

In the grand scheme of things, your role is to be the calm in their storm, using your words and actions to guide them back to peace. Being equipped with the right phrases and understanding the importance of your presence can make all the difference. By fostering an environment of support and empathy, you can help them see that though the sea may be rough now, calmer waters lie ahead.