A Simple Guide to Help Communicate with Your Loved One with Anxiety

Signs that your child, friend, family member etc.. is dealing with anxiety and how to help:

1. The person has disclosed to you their issue. If someone mentions their anxiety DO NOT take it lightly. Evening opening up about it is tough so LISTEN. This of course is the easiest sign but people seem to not accept their truth.

2. They seem to be distant from time to time. This is okay and do not take it personally, but the poor person is trying to just handle the atomic bombs their mind is throwing at them. Give them their space, but only for a little while until you rush in to reassure them and/or offer any type of help! (Also, a simple sweet text goes a long way)

3. Irregular sleep patterns. If they complain about not getting enough sleep or sleeping too much, listen to them and do not brush it off. Sleep is SO important and is co-morbid with depression symptoms so be mindful of that as well. Offer to call them before bed to vent or if you're able make sure you give them a hug before bedtime. (My anxiety seems to peak at night especially so it makes bedtime hard for me)

4. Irritable. If they are usually well mannered people and then they seem to just snap, listen. Their mind is so hard on them so if external factors become overwhelming... proceed with caution. A little, "I'm proud of you," or "You are doing great," goes such a long way. Who knows how long they have been holding onto things. Also, this is simple but overlooked... If you have hurt someone you know deals with anxiety, apologize as soon as your pride will let you. They do not have the luxury of just brushing things off. (Google rumination)

5. Odd body language and speech. When my anxiety peaks randomly it's so noticeable in my speech and body language. I start to fidget, stutter, bite my lips, or stare off into space. If you define yourself as a person who can read people pretty well, then this should be the first sign you notice. If you do notice them behaving abnormally just pull them back into the conversation with simple questions like, "how was your day," or ease their mind with a simple compliment. Significant others: if your love is fidgeting, grab their hand. This helps bring them back to reality.

The small gestures add up so I hope this helps. People with anxiety are just regular people like you, but they are dealing with so many personal obstacles, so be patient and kind to them, along with everyone else!