Helping an anxious loved one

[TrudyJane]

How can I help my anxious daughter seek help for her anxiety? She has all the excuses in the world not to seek help. She lives overseas so can’t visit. Should I discuss my concerns with her partner. Advice please.

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

We often get this problem I'm afraid.

Let's call it stubbornness. However it can also be a lack of insight. Seeing your problems is harder for the person. Or perhaps stigma when the person rebels against any notion they are mentally ill.

The bottom line is there is little you can do.

Perhaps the following threads can help more. Copy and paste in the search bar at the top.

Is there room for stubbornness?

Does stubbornness have a place?

Worry worry worry

Anxiety, how I eliminated it

TonyWK

[missep123]

Hi TrudyJane,

It sounds like you really care for your daughter which is lovely to see.

I understand that it can be so tough when you are worried about a loved one but are unsure of what to do or how to help.

TonyWK mentioned some great threads in the above post. I have also heard that perhaps finding youtube videos or TED talks regarding anxiety can be helpful.

In my own experience, just being there for the person and telling them you are there for them can really mean the world also.

Here for you!

[SarahZ]

Hello TrudyJane,

Welcome to the forums and thank you for reaching out. I’m really sorry to hear that your daughter is struggling to seek help. I can tell you are a great parent who deeply cares about their daughter’s mental wellbeing. Similar to what missep123 said, just letting her know that you are there to listen and support her maybe be helpful. For your daughter to want to reach out for professional support it would be important for her to feel supported by her loved ones as opposed to being constantly told to do something she might night feel comfortable with right now. I know it’s really hard and difficult to see your daughter dealing with anxiety, however hopefully she will find it within herself to reach out soon. You’re doing a really wonderful job right now even just reaching out and trying to educate yourself about your daughters condition and how to improve it. You should feel exceptionally proud of yourself! I’m sure your daughter would be super appreciative and grateful.

Wishing you the very best ~