Anxiety is something that is REAL, and it is real for a lot of people. It does not define us, but it will always be a part of us. As many people may not know, I too, dealt with anxiety at a very young age. While I feel that my anxiety is not really a part of who I am anymore, I still occasionally feel symptoms which can be scary, but I feel that I fortunately know how to combat those feelings. Throughout my journey, it was clear that not a lot of people knew how to help me, or even knew what to say. As individuals with anxiety, this can be difficult and frustrating; however, those people do want to help. Hopefully this will give you a little bit of guidance as how to help someone living with anxiety (note: this is based off of my own personal experiences--I realize everyone's is different).
Simply listen and support them
This is the easy one. While you may not have the answers or the solutions, something you can do is just listen. Being there for someone with anxiety is imperative. It is extremely confusing and lonely to have these irrational feelings (trust me, we know they are) but, to us, they feel very real. If we feel as if no one is there for us, then those symptoms will probably heighten. So if you don't know the right words to say, all you have to do is listen. Tell them you are going to be there for them no matter what and that you're going to get through this.
Do not delegitimize their feelings
This is a very important one. As the listener, you must realize that you are thinking rationally about how they are feeling--well, they are not. While you won't be able to fully put yourself into their shoes, it is important to accept that all of their feelings and fears are real--never ask them why they feel that way or just brush it off. Telling them to "calm down" is worse than saying nothing at all. Although it may not be real to you, it is definitely real to them. Don't forget that.
Don't assume it's going to go away overnight
Anxiety doesn't just go away. There are going to be good days and bad days, but it's going to take some time. In my own experience, my anxiety completely controlled my life for around five or six years. For some people, their anxiety can control them their whole lives. This is very daunting and scary--we know that. Healing takes a long time and if you encourage them to "get over it" fast, I can guarantee you it's not going to happen. It doesn't just "go away".
Encourage them to seek help
The best thing I ever did was seek professional help and go to a therapist. I realize that many people may feel uncomfortable with this, and that is okay. But sometimes it is important to talk to someone that is unbiased and may know what to say or how to help you better than your friends and loved ones. We know that living with anxiety can be hard on the people that love us, but just know that it doesn't have to consume your life, too. That is the last thing we want.
Let them know it's going to get better
I can attest that it will get better, but it's going to take some time. There is light at the end of the tunnel that they may not see, but you just need to encourage them that it is there. I know they may feel like it is never going to get better, and that anxiety is going to control their life.
But believe me: It gets better.
