friends

Family and friends

It is not uncommon for families and friends of those affected by anxiety disorders to spend months, or as is often the case, years trying to find out exactly what is wrong. This inevitably results in a strain being placed on relationships and can in extreme cases result in carers themselves developing anxiety problems.

Family and friends often want to help, but are unsure as to how to do this and may wonder if they are actually making the problem worse. It is therefore really important for anyone supporting a sufferer of an anxiety disorder to seek appropriate help and also to gain as much information as possible about anxiety disorders.

Living with anyone who has an anxiety disorder can take its toll on the entire family; household routines become disrupted, forward planning of events becomes impossible, engagement in social activities is affected and in short, the sufferers problems start to spill over into all aspects of everyday life.

Talking to a friend

Helping a family member/friend
suffering with anxiety

Below is a list of things that you we recommend you do if you are supporting a family member/friend with an anxiety disorder:-

  • Learn as much as possible about the sufferer's specific anxiety problem
  • Be flexible with the sufferer, whilst maintaining a normal routine
  • Be sure to praise achievements irrespective of how small they seem
  • Let the sufferer set the pace for recovery - don't try and push them too far, too soon
  • Try not to assume you know what the sufferer needs - it is always best to ask.
  • Be predictable - don't surprise the sufferer. If you agree to be at a certain place at a specific time, be there
  • And importantly ensure that you have a strong support network (if you don't look after yourself you will be less effective at supporting others)

ANXIETY UK produces a booklet entitled: The carer's guide to anxiety that can be ordered though the ANXIETY UK shop.

There is also a useful book entitled: 'Anxiety disorders: the caregivers - information for support people, family and friends' - by Ken Strong.

ISBN 1590790561

Generalized Anxiety Disorder cover Anxiety disorders: The Caregivers begins with clear and detailed explanations of the causes, symptoms and treatments currently available for generalised anxiety disorder, panic attacks, agoraphobia, post traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. It then offers suggestions, many based on personal experiences, to help those caring for anxious people. The booko focuses on ideas to help support persons to maintain a well-balanced perspective in order to avoid being overwhelmed by their difficult situations.