Mental health issues can secretly destroy a person more than physical problems do. A lot of people experience these kinds of psychiatric conditions, yet it is invisible from their faces that are full of smiles and laughter. Helping a person overcome a psychological problem is essential in improving their mental health. As a significant other, how can you help your romantic partner prevail over anxiety?
Don’t Try To Fix Them.
Never pressure your partner to do something against his will, mainly living up to the idea of how you want them to be as it makes them feel like a disappointment whenever they fail to fit in the concept that you want. Choose to love them and accept them as they are – with their flaws and imperfections, and not to fix them like a broken pot. Remember, “The sensation of pressure doesn’t have to be negative—it can be a positive challenge and motivating.” Alicia H. Clark, Psy.D. said.
Never Explain Why They Shouldn’t Be Afraid.
Take a moment to consider asking your loved one about the particular situation or event that distresses them excessively. In some instances, talking about someone’s fear and horror and enumerating its worst potential consequences can have the aftermath of balancing panic in one’s eyes. Wait for your partner to be the one that points out the foolishness of being anxious over something, but most importantly, does not make fun of their mental condition. “Fear makes us feel alive and know we are stepping outside our comfort zones, which is exciting,” says Steve Orma, PsyD, a clinical psychologist.
Be Honest And Set Expectations.
Putting it simply, do not make white lies to your partner to not make them worry or protect them from getting hurt. Never hide the real things that come into your relationship and do not treat them as a fragile object. Usually, anxious people get a quick idea that something is wrong. Covering it up by lies will make them feel worse.
Happiness Is Different For Everyone.
“Happy people do things differently. They make their emotional wellbeing a priority and practice daily and weekly habits that help them create joy, happiness and satisfaction in their lives.” Dr. Chantal Gagnon PhD LMHC said. Have an understanding of the universal idea that people view happiness differently from each other. Some people define happiness as winning in a lottery, going to school and learning new things, and it is also distinct to people with anxiety. Your partner may appreciate happiness as a chance for social withdrawal or a day without having a panic attack. Learn to accept it, and you might realize you did something great for your partner today.
Make Them Feel Safe.
In usual cases, the biggest horror of people with anxiety realizes that other people do not love them because of their apprehension and anxiety. Do a favor for them and always remind them how much you love and appreciate them despite their faults and weaknesses – it may sound too cheesy, but it can brighten your partner’s day.
Live Your Life.
Do not let your partner’s troubles stop you from doing what you love the most. If your partner is going through panic attacks again, but you cannot afford to miss your parents’ 60th-anniversary party – it is okay to go. It looks like a betrayal, but it is a healthy step-up in your relationship. Just do not forget to check on your partner’s condition and let them know that you worry about them.
Ask And Communicate.
An open relationship where each participant can share their thoughts and problems is the best relationship you and your partner can have. Never miss about asking about your partner’s day, what troubles them the most, and how they can ease it. Let them know that you are more than grateful to listen and you do not necessarily have to agree on everything they say. Allow them to express their feelings, and it will make them happy to know that someone cares.
These are just some of the tips on how to help your partner overcome anxiety. They do not guarantee that it can destroy someone’s anxiety but these little actions matter importantly. Start doing these things to them before you are too late – before they are devoured by the frightening pit of depression.