Helping my friend with anxiety

[MissMoobelle]

Hi,

I have just had a friend come to me who is suffering with anxiety.  I sat and listened but felt totally helpless as I didn't have the words to help.  Thankfully they recognise the anxiety and will be seeing someone tomorrow.  What can I do to help and support them through this tough time. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you in advance! 

[CrashCoyote]

Hi MissMoobelle, (cute name)

Can I suggest you read on this site under the heading "the facts"? There is a section for anxiety. Start there and good luck.

Kind regards, John.

[Hazel]

Hi MissMoobelle!

I agree with CrashCoyote/John definitely start here in the facts section, there is some really great downloadable pamphlets that have heaps of helpful info. 

Although I would advise that if you look outside of this website to be very very careful. There is a lot of unhelpful information out there which is completely detrimental to helping someone with depression! 

You are doing a really wonderful thing though, just listening is a huge help, even if your friend goes over and over some of the same anxieties. Being patient and listening without fear of judgement will go a long way!

[faeriedust88]

Hi MissMoobelle,

I agree - just by being there for her you will be able to be a great help.

Try long walks together or a cuppa tea n chats.  

Listening is a great skill a friend can have, listen without judgement and know you are doing the best you can for your friend.  

Maybe take up a class together - be creative!  Try an art class, yoga or meditation together.

Good luck!

[MissMoobelle]

Thank you Crash Coyote/John, Hazel and faeriedust88!  I truly appreciate your advice and its great to be pointed in the right direction.  To make the situation a little more complicated, we are expats-in a predominantly non-English speaking country so getting help is sometimes quite complex.  At this point my friend has returned home to see family and I am hoping that this will help somewhat.  I have been thinking about making some meals to put in the freezer for when they get home and don't have to worry about shopping/cooking?  Is that going too far?  It can be overwhelming grocery shopping here, most people struggle with it!  It is difficult to know what is over stepping the mark in helping.

[faeriedust88]

Hi Miss Moobelle, 

I think that's a great idea - it shows that you're caring and cooking for your friend will help them to adjust back into life when they arrive home - the last thing anyone wants to do is groceries and making some dinners is extremely thoughtful and a great treat!  

Sounds like she is fortunate to have a friend like you.

Best wishes 🙂