"You are not alone"
Reassure your loved ones that their struggles are valid and reminding them that they aren’t alone, can help them keep perspective and feel supported.
"There is no reason to feel ashamed"
Treat an anxiety diagnosis the same as you would a high blood pressure diagnosis: Without judgement. When both your words and actions show acceptance, you can make your loved ones feel supported and loved.
"There is no reason to feel ashamed"
Reassure your loved ones that their struggles are valid and reminding them that they aren’t alone, can help them keep perspective and feel supported.
“It’s ok to not be ok.”
It’s important for your loved ones to hear, “It’s ok that you feel anxious. I’m here with you. There’s no pressure for you to feel good right now.” This is different from saying, “You’re ok,” which can be incredibly invalidating. Rather, you are making it clear that, “It’s ok that you’re not ok.” This can help them to feel safer, supported and validated. It can also help them to feel safe admitting they are not ok.
“How can I help?”
Let them tell you what they need. People are much more likely to accept help when it is offered than if they have to ask for it. The key is to simply offer.
People are more likely to seek help if they don’t feel judged. Likely, you would never question someone for going to a cardiologist or doubt their need to take blood pressure medicine. Likewise, you should never question someone who needs professional guidance or medication for a mental illness. As a loved one, your role is not to be a doctor, nor an expert, but rather to help your loved one seek the help they need.