Do keep lines of communication open. When it comes to helping someone with anxiety, it is important to keep an open line of communication with them. ...
If an anxious friend decides to confide in you, show you support them. Validate, rather than minimize, their experience. If you don't have an anxiety disorder, avoid offering advice without listening to your friend. Tell them you're there for them, ask how you can help and listen to what they have to say.
Here are three strategies I use every day to stop overthinking:
Positive reframing. This is often confused with “toxic positivity,” which asks people to think positively — no matter how difficult a situation is. ...
Write down your thoughts once, then distract yourself for 24 hours. ...
But, if you're looking for something to say, here are some ways to articulate that you care: “I'm here for you.” “How can I help you?” “What do you need right now?”
Traumatic events in the past, stress experienced in the present, and high pressures or demands of life can also be the cause of overthinking in someone. “The impact of overthinking if it occurs for a long time is one of them is declining physical health.
No, overthinking isn't a recognized mental health condition, but it can be a symptom of depression or anxiety. Overthinking is commonly associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), says Duke. GAD is characterized by the tendency to worry excessively about several things.
Asking questions can help an overthinker process how they feel. If they're being quiet and it's obvious they're deep in thought, ask them what's on their mind. If they express an idea or thought, pepper them with follow-up questions to hear more about where they're coming from.
How do you deal with someone who needs constant reassurance?
To help your partner reduce the need for reassurance, encourage them to find outlets for self-care. Small moments of independence and self-love help them gain the confidence to feel secure in their relationship with you. As you continue to reassure your partner, motivate them to set healthy boundaries.
Overthinking in relationships can lead to a myriad of challenges. Essentially, you're living in the future or the past and aren't able to be emotionally available for your partner in the moment. You can find yourself experiencing significant emotional distress because of the anxiety that comes from overthinking.
gently let them know that you think they might be having a panic attack and that you are there for them. encourage them to breathe slowly and deeply – it can help to do something structured or repetitive they can focus on, such as counting out loud, or asking them to watch while you gently raise your arm up and down.
