Trigger Warning: Anxiety
Many people believe that anxiety is ‘just being a little nervous’. That is completely false. Anxiety is a mental condition that can destroy the quality of a person’s life. Anxiety is constantly thinking about all the bad things that can possibly happen, all the time, without a break.
It’s mentally and physically exhausting. Please be understanding and compassionate towards those who are affected by it.
Why Does Someone With Anxiety Often Come Across As “Rude”?
Here are a few reasons (source: @themindhealthspot on Instagram):
They don’t like making eye contact: Someone with anxiety may feel discomfort or even fear from making eye contact with others.
They cancel plans at the last minute.
They leave events early.
They may appear insensitive to others’ emotional needs.
They may be non-stop chatty.
On the other hand, they may have short, blunt responses.
They don’t return phone calls or messages.
A person who suffers from anxiety doesn’t intent to be “rude”. They are constantly battling an inner fight that not everyone can understand.
How Can We Support A Loved One With Anxiety?
Hurtful statements:
It’s not worth worrying about. Why stress about it?
Everyone has anxiety you just have to deal with it.
Anxiety disorder? You just sound stressed to me.
It’s all in your head.
Just get over it.
Others have it worse off.
Just cheer up.
Just calm down.
Helpful things to say:
Is there anything I can do to help?
I am proud of you.
I’m here to listen, Tell me what you need.
I am glad you’re getting the support you deserve.
Tips on how to help someone who is having a panic or an anxiety attack:
Ask them if they’d like to talk or sit in silence with them.
Get the person to hold something cold in their hands.
Offer your hand, the body will feel more grounded.
Listen to the person.
Don’t pressurise the person.
Ask them to count from five to zero slowly.
Ask the person if they’re comfortable with you hugging them as that grounds the person at times.
Be patient with the person.
Show them compassion.
Remember to always ask the person what they need (preferably in the form of ‘Yes or no’ questions)
Hope this helps 🙂