It's not easy living with anxiety, but what about those around the person suffering? Here are some tips on how to talk to someone who is dealing with anxiety.

Don't put pressure on them: it is natural to want to help them face their fears or offer practical advice but this can be quite distressing for someone who is already very anxious. Try to remember that being unable to control their worries is part of having anxiety, and they aren't choosing how they feel.

Accept this part of them: having anxiety does not define a person but is simply a part of who they are. Once you accept this part and learn to help your friend act within these limits, you can have quite a fruitful and conventional friendship. It's the same as being friends with someone who has an allergy in a way!

Understand and ask: understanding what it feels like to deal with anxiety is the first step in this acceptance. By learning about how they feel and what they go through on a daily basis can make you a more compassionate friend. Ask your friend about their experiences and how they feel, and also how you can help.