Being in a relationship with someone who suffers from anxiety can be challenging. Some studies have even found that anxiety disorders can lead to marital dissatisfaction, however it doesn’t have to be this way. By learning how to address, accept and cope with your partner’s anxiety you might find even more depth and love in your relationship. Here are a few ways in which you can deal with this.

1. Create a safe space: let your partner know that you are there for them and that you want to listen and learn about how they feel. Try to be empathetic during these conversations and keep the judgements to a minimum.
2. Understand what anxiety means: anxiety is not something made up but a real mental health condition. It has multiple symptoms, causes and treatments and affects each person differently.
3. Accept and acknowledge the anxiety: talk about the symptoms together especially when you sense that their negative thoughts or anxious feelings are putting a strain on your relationships.
4. Let them know you are there for them: many times people with anxiety tend to drive people away due to their own negative thoughts and behavious turning this into a vicious cycle. Let your partner know that you aren’t going anywhere and that you are there for them no matter what.
5. Help them get treatment when necessary: there is no need for you to take this onto your shoulders alone. Whether you or your partner needs help, feel comfortable enough to speak to a therapist or counsellor to help your partner with their anxiety and to help you learn how to cope with it better.

If you are struggling with a partner with anxiety, reach out to MPower Minds.