Creating a Safe Space: Loving Someone with Anxiety

Anxiety can often make an individual feel like they are perpetually on the brink of losing everything. This fear can sometimes lead them to sabotage their own relationships, driven by deep-seated insecurity and a battle against uncontrollable feelings. They understand that their thoughts and worries can be irrational, and rather than burdening you with these, they may prefer to distance themselves before you decide to leave.

However, it’s essential to remember that they’re worth every effort. It may not always be a smooth journey. There might be unexpected arguments sparked by scenarios they’ve constructed in their mind. But it’s crucial to remember that they’re worth every struggle. Those who are hardest to love often need it the most. If you stand beside them in their battles, your efforts will yield abundant rewards.

The phrase “It’s okay,” carries immense significance. This brief reassurance possesses the capability to pacify the tempest of thoughts swirling within their mind. In all honesty, there’s no limit to how frequently you can use these comforting words.

Listening can be more powerful than you realize. They may sometimes leap from one thought to another, creating connections that might not seem evident to you. In such moments, the best thing you can do is lend an open ear. Even if there’s no immediate solution or the worry is about a future event, simply listening can be incredibly therapeutic.

It’s crucial not to disregard their worries as mere ‘overreactions.’ From your perspective, their anxieties may seem unfounded. However, for them, these concerns are genuine and can lead to restless nights. Therefore, it’s important to validate their fears, regardless of whether they appear logical to you.

Sleep might be a challenge for them. Whether they struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, you might find them wide awake at odd hours. In such moments, your comforting presence could be all they need to drift back to sleep.

Remember, their fear isn’t about trust. It’s about being scared. When you mention an ex or a friend, their mind might instantly jump to worst-case scenarios. It’s not that they distrust you or your relationship, but their anxiety plays out these scenarios involuntarily, causing them distress.

Timely responses to texts can work wonders. They might respond to messages faster than most people and expect the same. Silence can trigger unnecessary worries in their mind, leading to unwarranted apologies and added stress. A simple message explaining your unavailability can go a long way in alleviating their anxiety.

Don’t get upset over double texts. You might find multiple messages from them on your phone. Understand that this isn’t because they want to annoy you; they simply care too much, even if they know it might come off as excessive.

They might not always be up for social events. There might be times when they cancel plans last minute or freeze during a social gathering. If they choose to leave, don’t feel guilty or compelled to accompany them. Understand that they tried their best, but certain situations can trigger their anxiety, making it difficult for them to cope.

Accept their apologies, even when you don’t comprehend their reasons. They have a keen sense of observation and might pick up on the slightest change in your mood. They might apologize even before you realize something’s amiss. Accept their apologies, even if you don’t fully understand why they’re apologizing.

Offer help when you can, but also recognize when you can’t. They might take on more than they can handle, preferring to have multiple meltdowns rather than admit they need help. They’re accustomed to managing things independently. In moments when they seem overwhelmed, offer your support, but understand that they might not ask for help.

Once they trust you, they’ll love you like no other. While undone tasks, disrupted plans, or unanswered texts can overwhelm someone with anxiety, they excel in one area—love. Once they trust you, their capacity to love you will fill voids you didn’t even know existed. Their strength lies in their ability to express their affection and appreciation for you, providing a unique depth to your relationship.

To summarize, these are the following steps you can take when in love with someone with anxiety:

• Understand Anxiety
• Be Patient and Supportive
• Encourage Professional Help
• Communicate Openly
• Prioritize Self-Care

Loving someone with anxiety might seem challenging, but with understanding, patience, and open communication, it’s absolutely possible. Remember, everyone has their battles, and being in a relationship means supporting each other through those battles. Your love and support can make a significant difference in the life of someone living with anxiety.