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Advice to Someone Suffering From Anxiety

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, "Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. It helps one deal with a tense situation in the office, study harder for an exam, keep focused on an important speech. In general, it helps one cope. But when anxiety becomes an excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations, it has become a disabling disorder."

Explain to the person who is suffering from anxiety that you are there for them. Ask them what type of anxiety they are suffering from, and find out what the triggers are.

  1. Advice to Someone Suffering From Anxiety

    • According to Dr. Vijai P. Sharma, an expert in anxiety "In the past year, 10 to 12 percent of people suffered from panic attacks, phobias, and other anxiety disorders. It is the number-one problem for women and in men it is second only to the alcohol and drug problem."

      Advise the person suffering from anxiety that counseling could help them recover from this disorder. Offer to accompany this individual to their first counseling session. You, a family member, or doctor may know of a psychiatrist that specializes in anxiety, and you can recommend a psychiatrist to this person, or if you need a referral, you can click on the following link, from the American Psychological Association: http://locator.apa.org, or you can call 1.800.964.2000.

    Desensitization

    • Let the person know that they can take baby steps towards facing whatever it is that triggers the anxiety. Through desensitization, the anxiety will in time lessen. Also advise them not to overdo it, because if the person encounters more exposure than they can handle, this would only worsen the anxiety.

    Anxiety Workbook

    • Suggest that the individual purchase an anxiety workbook that appeals to them, or purchase one for them.

    Fatigue

    • You can explain to your friend that, although they may feel overwhelmed, they need to take some time to relax, because fatigue can cause the symptoms of anxiety to get worse.

    Exercise

    • Ask this person what exercise they enjoy and offer to exercise with them. Taking long walks is great for anxiety relief, and walking along a serene location like a lake will be beneficial to helping a person to relax.

    Get a Pet

    • If the person who is suffering from anxiety can afford a pet, suggest that they obtain one at the local animal shelter. This way they will feel better about themselves by adopting an animal and giving them a home. In turn, the pet will comfort the person and help the person to feel loved and adored.

    Confidential

    • Never repeat anything that the individual who suffers from anxiety has told you in confidence, trust between the two of you is important. It is not necessary to repeat anything, unless there is an emergency.

      You can never advise someone who is suffering from anxiety if they no longer trust you.

    Report Danger to Law Enforcement

    • If you feel that the person who is suffering from anxiety is a danger to themselves, or is a danger to others, contact your local police department for immediate assistance.

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