Anxiety is a tough battle and has a huge effect on many people's lives. Anxiety is the hardest for the ones suffering with it, but can also be tough for the friends and families that are there to help. Being a supportive friend is very rewarding and keeping your friend happy and safe is worth the while. Here are a few things to remember when you're helping your friend through a tough time:
1. They are much greater than their anxiety.
Sometimes they tend to believe that all they are is an anxious person and that the real personality seems to disappear. They need to be reminded of the great things about them.
2. Constantly remind them that you love them.
When they get into a funk or go through a panic attack, they tend to lose sight of all the good things in their lives, and sometimes the people that care so much about them. Tell them you love them, even if they don’t say it back or don’t believe you—it helps.
3. They don’t do this on purpose.
Remember that they don’t do this for fun. They don’t do this to get attention, or to get out of stressful situations. They cannot control it. If they could just turn it off, they would in a second.
4. Little things mean the world to them.
Small things that show them you care can make their entire day. Send Domino's to their dorm room, post a cute pic of the both of you on social media, or buy them flowers. A small smile can make a huge impact.
5. Hugs always help.
When you can’t think of the words to help them…a hug does the trick.
6. They do appreciate you.
Some people who struggle with anxiety have a hard time grasping what matters around them. In a situation where they are struggling, it might seem like they don’t appreciate everything you’re doing to help them. They do appreciate it, but in an anxious mind, it’s hard to realize that you’re trying to help.
7. Don’t get frustrated if they can’t verbalize what is bothering them.
When their thoughts are rapid, it is often difficult for them to speak at all, let alone tell you what is bothering them. Don’t force them to speak to you; they will tell you when they are ready.
8. They might be there physically, but not mentally.
Some days are better than others but most of the time, anxiety is very tiring. They are on high alert 24/7, and their minds are going a mile a minute. So when your friend doesn’t want to go to the gym, or is a little spacey, remember that their mind is always tired.
9. Try to understand what anxiety is.
Educate yourself on what your friend is going through. You’ll never be able to relate, but the more you know the more helpful you’ll be.
10. They’ve beat it before, and they can beat it again.
Anxiety attacks happen often, but they pass every single time. Remind your friend that they are strong and to keep fighting.
11. You don’t want your loved one to give up, so that means you can’t give up, either.
Having a friend with anxiety can bring a lot of stress to you, but always remember that what they are going through is 10 times more stressful. Stick by their side, and they won’t ever give up. You mean more to them than anything else in the world.
