Loving an Anxious Partner
Loving someone with anxiety can be both rewarding and challenging. It requires patience, understanding, and a whole lot of love. Anxiety affects millions of people, and Anxiety does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender or age, so you may find yourself navigating these waters, either personally or through supporting a partner. Knowing how to support an anxious partner can strengthen your relationship and improve your partner's quality of life.
Recognizing Anxiety in Your Partner
Anxiety can manifest in many ways. Your partner might experience frequent worry, restlessness, or physical symptoms like a racing heart or stomach issues. They might also avoid certain situations or seem overly concerned about things that wouldn't typically be a big deal. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 18.1% of the population each year.
While we are used to worry or fear, Anxiety can also show up as hyper-controlling behaviors, forgetfulness or difficulty in communication. It can be triggered by very real circumstances or by perceived concerns that may seem irrelevant to you. Anxiety can also be complicated by other mental health conditions, including those related to trauma.
Ways to Support an Anxious Partner
Open Communication: Talk openly with your partner about their anxiety. Let them know you're there to listen without judgment. Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can make a huge difference.
Encourage Professional Help: Encourage your partner to seek help from a therapist or counselor. Professional support can provide them with tools and strategies to manage their anxiety effectively.
Practice Patience and Empathy: Understand that anxiety can be overwhelming and exhausting. Show patience and empathy, even when it's tough. Remember, your support can make a significant impact on their well-being.
Self-Care While Supporting Your Partner
Supporting an anxious partner is important, but so is taking care of yourself. You can't pour from an empty cup.
Maintain Your Own Mental Health: Make sure you're also taking time to address your own mental health needs. This might mean seeing a therapist, engaging in hobbies, or simply taking time to relax.
Set Boundaries: It's okay to set boundaries and communicate your needs. Let your partner know when you need a break or if something is too overwhelming for you.
Conclusion
Loving an anxious partner is a journey that requires compassion, understanding, and self-care. By maintaining open communication, encouraging professional help, and practicing patience, you can support your partner effectively. Remember, you're not alone in this. If you or your partner need personalized support, our office is here to help. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can support you both on this journey.