Dealing with anxiety is no joke. The worry, mental, and emotional stress that comes with it can drain a person's health.
Everyone deals with anxiety in some shape or form, but there are people with a heightened form of it -- and these people tend to experience irrational fears, feel mentally drained, and worry about intangible things.
The thing is, dating someone with anxiety is much like dating a regular person -- there is a need for constant care and support. However, there may be a need to offer extra love, empathy and more patience with them -- and here is how to do just that.
Ask questions
Communication is everything. And it's even more critical when in a relationship with someone with an anxiety disorder.
When your partner's anxiety is high, you've got to keep a close eye on their needs. If they are open to communication, you should ask them right away. If not, you've got to keep things low key.
Soft music comes in handy at this point. Playing with pets or keep them focused with artistic or creative work. Games are also great for focus.
Know what to say
Words are powerful. The right words can produce the desired result. Words, like calm down or relax may seem harmless on the surface. But these words can pretty much worsen the anxiety.
You can also give them some time alone. Respect their boundaries at these times.
Be aware of the signs.
It's easy to pinpoint signs like restlessness, excessive worrying, and difficulty in sleeping. But perfectionism is a subtle sign of anxiety. Such persons hardly relax, and they need constant reassurance that everything is alright.
Get professional help.
Through step-by-step instructions and via a commitment to therapy with a qualified psychologist, you can successfully decrease daily anxiety. You will learn the skills necessary to overcome symptoms so that you can enjoy a happier and more fulfilling life.
At Psychology, Counselling and Wellbeing Centre, our treatment goals include helping you learn that anxiety is manageable and does not have to control your life.
How to apply practical and powerful strategies to assist in your own recovery.
How to identify and manage your responses to anxiety triggers.
How to identify and modify unhelpful thinking, behaviour and reactions.
How to more effectively deal with relationships, stressful situations and life changes.
How to increase self-confidence, independence and self-esteem.
How to better accept a certain level of anxiety while reaching for important goals.
At our clinic based in Woolloongabba, our team of psychologists are passionate about helping you make the changes you need to live the life you want. If you feel you need Anxiety Counselling please call us on 07 3891 2273.