6. Don’t judge her.
The last thing someone dealing with anxiety needs is to be judged. They’re already self-conscious about the fact that they never feel normal and making them feel bad for what they cannot control. If they need to take medication to control their anxiety, just be supportive. Sometimes it’s the only thing that can help them and while it may not seem like it, they know what is best for their mood.
7. Don’t pity her.
In the same breath as judging someone with anxiety, don’t pity them either. They know it’s difficult to deal with their mood swings but do not feel sorry for them, they already do that to themselves. They don’t want sympathy, they just want to be understood and supported. The best thing you can do for someone with anxiety is to be there for them and give empathy.
8. Understand that it can, at times, be exhausting.
When I get anxious, I get sort of quiet and go into my own head. Other anxious people become a little manic. Dealing with someone with anxiety can be exhausting because you never know what is going to happen. You could try to talk to them and they will be inside their head and not open up, or they will be constantly talking to you and trying to figure things out, out loud. It takes some getting used too but you will get used to it.
9. Just listen to her.
When your S.O is dealing with their anxiety, it can be very tempting to offer advice. You’re going to want to help and the easiest way to help is to try to help them through your words. That is not always going to be the answer, it’s not always going to help because when you’re anxious, no one can help you. If they tell you to not give advice, all you have to do is listen. Sometimes listening is the best way to help.
10. Realize, it’s all worth it.
Someone with anxiety has gone through their entire life feeling like something was wrong with them. They’re always worrying, always waiting for the other shoe to drop, and always on the edge. It’ll teach you a lesson in how to wholeheartedly love another person who doesn’t see themselves as perfect. Loving them will be worth it because they will love you back just as hard.