My friend has anxiety; how can I help?

Do you have a friend that suffers from anxiety? You want to offer support but aren’t sure how or if you’re doing it right. Or maybe you live with anxiety and need help communicating to friends and family how they can better support you. Keep reading for general tips on anxiety support. Connect with me at Wingate Counseling for personalized anxiety support and treatment.

Recognize The Signs

Being familiar with signs of anxiety will allow you to better support your friend. Generally speaking, anxiety can look like restlessness, avoidance, or irritability. Some people experience fatigue, breathing troubles, and nausea when anxious. Notice changes in mood and body language if you suspect a friend is feeling anxious. If you have difficulty noticing changes, simply ask your friend what symptoms usually accompany their anxiety. The more you know and understand, the better support you will offer.

Ask How You Can Help

Rather than giving advice, ask your friend what you can do to help. If your friend isn’t sure, try offering to take a break or go to a quieter space in that moment. You can always revisit situations with a friend afterward. In a calmer moment, circle back and ask permission to reflect on that situation together. Ask, “Looking back at that situation, is there anything that helped or you think might have helped that we could try next time you feel anxious?” Make sure to listen to understand in these moments rather than solving the problem or giving advice.

Validate Their Experience

You may not understand what it’s like to have anxiety, and that’s okay! You don’t have to understand to validate your friend’s experience. By showing curiosity and providing a non-judgemental space, you validate what your friend is going through. Let your friend know you are open and curious about their experience. For example, you can say, “I would like to understand your anxiety more if you feel comfortable sharing.” Make sure to really listen and thank them for sharing.

Show How Much You Care

Once you’ve learned more about your friend’s anxiety, show you care in situations you know might be tricky. Check-ins are always helpful! Remind your friend that you’re there for them if they need to leave early, opt-out, or take a break. Accepting and respecting boundaries is a defiant way to show you care. Or maybe you send your friend a text without any pressure to respond. Let them know you’re thinking about them, and you’re glad they are in your life!

The Bottom Line

People with anxiety may struggle to ask for help or know what they need. As a friend, you might feel unsure what to do. If you are reading this article, it’s evident that you are already a supportive friend! Know that your authenticity will shine through in your efforts. Use these tips as a starting point while being open and willing to learn from your friend along the way. If you have specific questions about anxiety or want individualized support, connect with Wingate Counseling for one-on-one guidance.