How to Help Someone With Anxiety

By: Rachel Thomasian

Anxiety is a common mental health issue that affects many people. It can be triggered by various factors and can take on different forms. If you have a loved one who is struggling with anxiety, it's important to be supportive and understanding. Here are some tips on how you can help someone with anxiety:

1. Listen: The first and most important step is to listen to the person. Let them express their feelings without judgment or interruption.
2. Educate yourself: Learn as much as you can about anxiety, its symptoms, and triggers. This will help you better understand what the person is going through and how you can support them.
3. Be patient: Recovery from anxiety takes time and patience. Encourage your loved one to take it one day at a time and be there for them as they work through their struggles.
4. Offer practical support: Encourage your loved one to seek professional help, such as therapy or medication. Offer to go to appointments with them or help them find resources.
5. Create a safe and supportive environment: Let the person know that you are there for them and that they can talk to you about anything. Encourage them to engage in activities that make them happy and to prioritize self-care.
6. Avoid triggering situations: If you know certain situations or activities trigger the person's anxiety, try to avoid them or find ways to manage them together.
7. Be positive: Encourage the person to focus on the positive aspects of their life and to practice gratitude.

Remember that everyone experiences anxiety differently and what works for one person may not work for another. The most important thing is to be supportive and understanding. By being there for the person and offering help, you can make a big difference in their journey towards recovery.