Reassuring things to say to people with anxiety
Are you concerned about someone's mental health? Do you find yourself at a loss over how to
react when the topic does come up? Well, they would never want to force a reaction out of you.
It can be uncomfortable to watch you struggle with what to say when they know you mean well.
There are many ways to be supportive without overstepping boundaries or taking on more than
you can handle. It's important to help you understand from a psychology oriented perspective,
the thoughts and emotions behind anxiety
so you can be well equipped to be supportive.
NOTICE: This is meant as a self-improvement guide and should not be used as self-treatment. If
you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety or any mental health issues,be sure to seek
help. Having a supportive environment does help, but professional guidance and advice goes a
long way.
With that said, here are some reassuring things to say to someone with anxiety.
Number one, you have my attention, or I'm listening. These phrases can mean a lot to someone
with anxiety. They're often too afraid to bring up anxiety related topics because they believe their
anxiety makes it hard to talk to them or find it difficult to be around. So hearing this is incredibly
reassuring. It helps to make them feel encouraged so they can bring it up without hesitation in the
future. This makes it feel like whoever's listening truly cares about what they have to say, and it
makes them want to return the favor whenever you may need to talk.
Two, what can I do to help you? Do they have so many pending assignments? Is there anything
they're craving for a snack? By asking the person in distress what might help, you're letting them
take control of the situation. Ask them to get creative if they can. Keep in mind though that some
people can actually become more anxious in the wake of decision-making. Sometimes it can feel
like one more thing to worry about, but it still gives them a chance to ask for anything they might
need.
Number three, hey, let's go for a walk. We can talk about it, or we can just get some fresh air. A
change of environment is a choice tool for interrupting the cycle of anxiety. It distracts the brain
from its worries. Focusing on the world around helps create distance between the person and
their thoughts, which ultimately makes them easier to talk about, and to let go.If they don't feel
like talking, at least they'll have something else to occupy their mind with.
Number four, is it okay if I give you a hug? Consent is key. Even when it comes to hugs, handholding and other innocent touches, they can all be triggering to someone with anxiety. Plus,
there are a lot of people who just don't like to be touched. So it's always important to ask first.
Sometimes a hug can be incredibly comforting during a difficult time, like a physical reminder
that you're not alone. During extreme anxiety though, being touched can make one feel trapped
and claustrophobic. So it's always appreciated when someone asks before going in for a hug. It
reminds them that they're in control of the conversation.
Number five, I'm here for you, no matter what is happening. If you're going to offer to be there
for someone who battles anxiety, be honest about what you're able to do, or be ready to be open
to whatever comes your way. It's nice to hear that someone is on their side, but it can't help if the
encouragement is conditional. To promise support only to disappear when things get tough, can
make it difficult to trust those who make this pledge. It can make them wary of such promises in
the future when they have ample evidence backing their hesitations. Authentic support is
especially reassuring when you're able to give it unconditionally, building their trust and selfesteem.
Number six, would advice be helpful, or should I just listen? Hugging, joking and giving advice
might be your first instinct when you see someone you love in distress, but people with anxiety
sometimes feel overwhelmed and even intimidated by the constant fire of suggestions. And they
can react intensely when someone starts spouting out suggestions before they've even had a
chance to finish talking. It might be hard, but you have to fight the urge to be a friend sometimes.
Instead, asking this question puts the person with anxiety in control of what happens next, which
in itself may relieve some of their anxious edge.
And number seven, I don't know what to say, but I'm here for you. Honesty is always the best
policy. Anxiety can be a difficult subject matter. So it's okay if you don't know what to say or
how to react. Honestly, sometimes even they don't know what to say, but it's refreshing and
reassuring to be genuine during such a vulnerable conversation. Friends and family have
admitted that they fear saying the wrong thing or making situations worse, but that the important
thing for them isn't always what you say, but to let them know that you're there for them, no
matter what.
This might be able to give you a little insight into some of the ways that you can show your
support to those living with anxiety.