Supporting Anxiety
Have you ever struggled with what to say to someone who is dealing with symptoms of anxiety?
Have you said the following:
This too shall pass.
Don’t worry it will all work out.
Let’s pray about it.
Your situation and or feelings could be so much worse.
Today, I will teach you easy ways to support someone who may be stuck, struggling, and or hiding because of their anxiety.
Does someone other than yourself struggle with anxiety?
This is how you can support someone who is struggling with anxiety.
I made this graphic so you could easily learn about how easy it is to change your thinking and show others that their feelings are indeed valid. This will also help break down the barrier of the stigma that overshadows mental illnesses in general.
Step 1: Tell them that you are there for them.
Let them know you are there for them.
You can do this by saying the following:
How can I help you?
I am here for you.
Can we meet up to talk about it.
Are you ok?
We can get through this.
Can I stay here with you?
Do you want to talk about it?
Step 2: Be there to listen only.
Be there to just listen to them.
Provide them a safe space to talk.
No judgments allowed.
Leave out your own personal biases and or opinions.
Work on showing neutral body language including facial expressions.
Let them talk for as long as they need.
Keep questions limited.
Remind them that it is ok.
Simple and easy for you to help someone you care about. Anxiety is an illness that many experience, but are often paralyzed when needing help, reaching out, or sharing their struggles.
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