HOW TO TALK TO LOVED ONES ABOUT YOUR ANXIETY
People that do not have significant anxiety often do not understand it.
Have you ever had someone tell you “Just stop” or “Just don’t think about it.”
Then those of us with anxiety say (or think) “Gee I wish I had thought of that!”
If only it were that easy!
Here are some ideas for how you can talk to others that are close to you and need a better understanding of how anxiety affects you.
Explain what symptoms you have. Include the physical symptoms.
Tell them in ways that they understand better. Example: “My heart races like I just sprinted a mile even though I have been sitting and worrying (over thinking).”
Explain that how you look on the outside is not always an indicator of what is going on inside.
Tell them how they can help.
Tell them what does not help.
Explain your triggers that you know and explain how there may be triggers that you are not aware of.
Anxiety feels like a lack of control. Provide them with a scenario they may understand better. Example: Imagine having your hands tied behind your back and someone punching you in the stomach. Anxiety can feel like you cannot protect yourself from it and you can have physically painful symptoms.
Explain anxiety as a cycle. It starts with a trigger that your brain detects as possibly harmful > this causes an emotional reaction > which triggers negative behaviors. (A therapist can help you to change the anxiety cycle.
Explain how it affects your daily life.
Have them read an article about being the partner of an anxious person.
Anxiety can cause difficulties in your relationships. Positive communication can lessen the impact. Consider couples therapy if your anxiety is making a significant negative impact on your relationship. A qualified couples counselor can assist with that communication.
If you need more information about anxiety then check the other articles on this website
Saving Grace Telehealth Counseling
Karen Baum MA, LPCC-S
Working through secure video for those in Ohio
Call or text: 419.277.4355
WWW.SavingGraceTC.com
Email: Karen@ SavingGraceTC.com
