Dr. Katy Kamkar, a clinical psychologist in the Work, Stress and Health Program and Psychological Trauma Program at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, identifies anxiety disorders as the most common mental health problem. Anxiety disorders can range from social anxiety to obsessive compulsive disorder, and its many other incarnations.
"A person suffering from an anxiety disorder has the tendency to overestimate the threat, danger or risk involved in situations," says Kamkar. "The distress caused by an anxiety disorder really does interfere with functioning in day-to-day activities." We asked her for advice on how to interact with a loved one who suffers from this mental illness, as well as ways to stay strong when it affects your relationship.
1. Don't pass judgment
If you haven't suffered from any anxiety disorders, it's hard to comprehend what they are exactly. But simply because you can't relate, it doesn't mean that you should underestimate the severity of them.
"An anxiety disorder is an illness. It is a disorder that causes a significant amount of distress and a significant amount of impairment," Kamkar stresses. You should be open to how much anxiety can impair your loved one's day-to-day functioning. "Reduce the tendency to be judgmental and critical," Kamkar says. It is important to not dismiss their actions as "dramatic."
2. Be supportive
Many people who suffer from an anxiety disorder suffer in silence. Kamkar admits that there's a stigma around mental health, which is why it's so important to be supportive and to encourage your loved one to open up.
"Talking about it with your partner, and asking them what you can do to help them when they feel an anxiety attack coming on, can really help them feel supported," says Kamkar. Listening to your loved one and being there for them will demonstrate that you are not intimidated by their problem.
Page 1 of 2 -- Reaching out to a loved one can start with reading more about anxiety disorders. Find more advice on helping those with anxiety on page 2
