4 Things You Shouldn't Say To An Anxious Person
So many Americans suffer from anxiety today that we’re all likely to know someone who has it. It can be difficult watching someone with anxiety go through mental turmoil and we may want to help but not quite know how. Check out the following things that the experts say not to say to someone who is suffering from anxiety.
1. “Don’t Let The Small Things Get To You”
The thing about anxiety is that it amplifies even a “small” situation. In other words, everything is a big deal to those who are anxious. Instead of telling the sufferer that something is no big deal, try to encourage them. Let them know that they have overcome these anxious feelings before and they will again.
2. “Calm Down”
Ha, if this phrase only worked. Think about it this way, of course an anxious person wants to calm down, that’s probably their number one hope. If they knew how to relax they would be calm by now, so saying that phrase only makes them mad. Instead of telling them to relax on command, suggest doing physical activities with them, like jogging or yoga.
3. “Just Do It"
Oh, if it were that easy. If an anxious person is facing something new, telling them to make themselves do it is just going to put them on the defense. Instead, empathize with them. Tell them that you’re so sorry that they’re feeling this way and that you are there for them. This can help them to feel understood and supported.
4. “It’s Going To Be Fine”
An anxious person is probably very unlikely to believe that everything will be fine, so saying it won’t really do any good. What can work best is to tell the anxiety sufferer that it’s okay to feel anxious. Help them to understand that they can feel exactly what they’re feeling and nothing bad will happen because of it.
Remember to consult your physician or chiropractor before taking any health advice.
Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of AFS-USA Intercultural Programs