Sometimes anxiety is indescribable. Some have little anxiety over common things such as tests, deadlines, or even facing frightening situations. But then there are other who can't leave their beds, can't focus on their work, or shut everyone out because their anxiety has completely taken over their life. It's an absolute monster, and I don't think a lot of people understand how bad anxiety is for some people.
There are so many out there, like myself, who don't even know what causes their anxiety. It comes and goes as it pleases over absolutely nothing. What needs to be understood about this sort of random anxiety for those who don't face it is that we don't know whats causing it; we understand it just as much as you (which is close to nothing,) and that it just happens without warning at probably the worst times. And then there are things that everyone has anxiety over, but for people who already have other generalized anxiety, the feeling is heightened and increased immensely. Anxiety can be triggered by so many different things or can just be completely random.
What I feel is the biggest misconception for people who don't face anxiety is that people with anxiety can control it. My thoughts for these people are that no, it can not be controlled, even if the trigger is known, BUT there are things that help. This is completely based on the person with the anxiety; some people exercise, listen to music, read, or even take medication. None of these things stop or control anxiety, not even the medicine, but help lighten and make someone feel better or experience less anxious. Some even have negative coping techniques like binge eating, substance abuse, or even putting to much attention into their work. These can do more harm than good in the long run.
Mainly this article is to explain to loved ones without anxiety how it works for some people and what they can do to help. First, just being there for someone with anxiety is the best thing someone can do. They know you are there, and they love you for it even if they don't show it. I promise. Another is to ask what we need. The best thing is to not assume we need certain things because that could not be helpful for us at all. Being supportive is also incredibly important for those with anxiety. Now if you do all of these things, keep in mind not to be too pushy or overbearing, and please understand that we don't understand either.
**This article is NOT how everyone with anxiety feels, this is what I know and feel and what I have learned from other with anxiety as well. Everyone is different and has different anxiety.
