What Not To Say To Someone Who Is Struggling With Anxiety
Lifestyle - News
By DANIELLE RAMOS-SULLIVAN
When speaking to someone with anxiety, it's important not to dismiss their feelings by saying "just get over it," "calm down," or "there's nothing to worry about.” At the same time, don't be blindly optimistic and immediately tell them that everything will be okay; things may get worse before they get better, and false promises can decrease their trust in you.
It’s also not the best idea to tell someone that you know how they feel, since you may not at all, and saying that makes the conversation about you while glossing over the person's pain. People struggling with anxiety are usually caught in irrational fears, and if you only experience rational fears, comparing your feelings to theirs is not helpful.
What you should do is give your friend your full attention, make them feel heard and validated, and let them know you’ll be there for them when they’re anxious or stressed. You should also ask them what you can do to help, and simply allow them to feel their feelings and confide in you, so that they know that they’re not alone.