The Dos and Don’ts of Dating Someone with Anxiety

Are you struggling to figure out how to help your anxious partner?

An estimated 40 million American adults have some type of anxiety disorder they struggle with. 

It can be difficult to watch a loved one suffer from anxiety. It’s easy to start questioning the future of your relationship and whether or not it’s right for you to be together. 

You might not realize that there are certain things you should and should not do when you’re dating someone with anxiety, which is why you and your partner should talk to a mental health professional. If you want to know more, read on and we’ll tell you what you need to know. 

Spend Time Researching Anxiety Disorders

If you want to learn how to support a partner with anxiety the first thing you should do is learn about their condition. By understanding what your partner suffering from anxiety is going through, you’ll become more empathetic. 

The first thing you should recognize is that anxiety is common. It does not mean that you are weak when you have anxiety. It’s also not something that people choose. 

Since many people who suffer from anxiety are genetically predisposed to have the disorder, it’s essential that you have patience when you’re dating someone with anxiety. 

Recognize That Your Partner Is Not Their Disorder

Try your best to see your partner’s condition as something that is separate from who they are. Yes, it does influence many aspects of their life, but it doesn’t define who they are. 

Once you are able to separate your partner from their condition, try to stop blaming them for the way that they feel. Remember that it’s not something they invent so that they can manipulate their loved ones. 

People who suffer from anxiety do not want to have the condition. They want to get better but oftentimes feel confused. 

Have an Open Mind and Be a Listener

One of the best offerings you can make to a loved one with anxiety is to be a great listener. To do this, keep in mind that you don’t need to try to fix them. In most situations, what your loved one needs most is somebody to validate how they’re feeling by listening to them. 

Therefore, you should try to steer away from offering suggestions or trying to solve their problem for them. 

Know the Best Things to Say

The worse thing you can do is say something that will make your partner feel more anxious. The best things you can say are phrases such as “I’m here and I’m listening,” and “You are strong and you are going to get through this.” 

Know What to Do When You’re Dating Someone With Anxiety

When you’re dating someone with anxiety, it’s important that you take the time to learn about their condition. You should also be a great listener and know what the best things are to say to them. 

If you want to find out more about mental health, don’t forget to check out the Lifestyle section of our website. Here we publish many important articles on this subject.