If you’re friends with someone who suffers from anxiety, chances are you’ve been witness to some pretty odd behavior: from unanswered texts messages to canceling plans at the last minute; anxiety can rule someone’s life.
There’s something you should know--no matter what happens--we still love you and value the relationship we have, but I can’t always conquer how I’m feeling.
Here are 20 things that will be helpful when things start to get bad again:
1. I’m not blowing you off, I promise.
Sometimes things just get so hard to handle I have to be alone, and I can’t explain it to anyone. I just have to be for awhile and let it simmer, it’ll pass.
2. Don’t take it personally if I seem irritated or angry.
It’s nothing personal and has nothing to do with you.
3. I can’t always explain to you what’s wrong.
Sometimes I don’t even know what exactly is wrong.
4. Please don’t try to fix me, just love me as I am while I try to fix myself.
The “fixing” I need will never come from someone else, only I can do it.
5. Sometimes social interaction is absolutely impossible, and I’m sorry.
6. The WORST thing you could ever say to me is “you’re fine” or “you’ll get over it."
If you don’t have anything supportive to say, don’t say anything at all.
7. I will over-think everything you tell me.
From the tone of your voice to the look in your eyes, I will examine everything from the situation.
8. If I’m really hesitant or uncomfortable about something, please drop it.
It makes me more and more anxious when you’re pressing an issue that I’m clearly not okay with.
9. I’m sorry for all the invitations that I’ve declined.
I wanted to go and I hope you invite me again; sometimes I just can’t muster the courage to tag along.
10. When I’m quiet, it doesn’t necessarily mean I’m sad, or scared or mad.
Sometimes, I’m just tired.
11. It may seem silly, but it’s very real to me.
Why would I make this up?
12. I’m trying so hard.
I know it doesn’t seem like I am…but I promise.
13. I hate worrying about everything.
I hate it. But, I can’t stop. Please don’t tell me to “quit worrying” that is the only thing I want to do.
14. When my anxiety gets really bad, I sleep more.
I’m sorry I’m sleeping so much, but I can’t help it.
15. I feel like a complete failure.
Like, all of the time.
16. I look like I’m lazy, when actually I’m a perfectionist.
Ironic, I know.
17. I appreciate your empathy, but it doesn't always help.
Sometimes, I need a “kick in the pants” to get going.
18. I’m not weak.
It takes a special kind of strong to deal with all of this, actually.
19. Anxiety doesn’t just hinder my mind.
It's my body, too.
20. Anxiety makes me question our relationships, no matter what.
It’s usually really irrational, and I feel bad afterward.
No matter what, always be there emotionally and physically for your friends and family while they struggle. For more information on anxiety and depression, please go here.
