A Support System Is Important for Coping with Anxiety

Having a strong support system is so important for anxiety. This is something I've learned throughout the years in my journey to learn more about my anxiety and how to cope with it. Even in times that I feel like I want to withdraw from others because I feel overwhelmed with anxious feelings, I make it a point to turn towards my anxiety support system.

In the work I do, I talk a lot about gratitude and the things I am thankful for in my life. I talk about how this helps me cope with anxiety and how it has helped me deal with chronic stress throughout the years. One of the main things I am always so grateful for is the people in my life who are part of my support system.

Why a Support System Is Helpful for Anxiety

As indicated by the American Psychological Association, emotional support helps boost resilience in times of stress, and, on the other hand, being lonely is linked with chronic health conditions.¹ I've learned that a strong support system for anxiety doesn't mean that you have to have a large group of friends and family. All it means is that you have people in your life who you can trust and lean on when you need support. And it means that those people support you unconditionally.

This is helpful for my anxiety because when I am anxious, I tend to feel overwhelmed with racing thoughts. Speaking with someone I can trust and who I know isn't going to judge me allows me to have a chance to express and process my thoughts. As a result, I feel less overwhelmed, and my mind feels less chaotic. Additionally, having someone you trust to express yourself with can help you organize your thoughts and possibly even change your perspective.

It also helps me feel like I am not alone. One of the scariest things about anxiety is the feeling that something bad is going to happen, and that feeling is even worse when you feel like you are alone. But when you have a strong support system for anxiety, you know you aren't alone. You know you have people who will support you and be there for you.

Lastly, having a strong anxiety support system helps me feel better about myself. When you struggle with anxiety, you may often also find that you experience feelings of self-doubt and unworthiness. For myself, this is related to the perfectionist standards that I set for myself that I find nearly impossible to achieve. But when you have a strong support system, those who are in that system can help you feel better about yourself because they are in your corner, supporting you.

Do you find that having a strong system of support is helpful for your anxiety? If so, share the reasons you find it helpful in the comments below.

Source

1. Manage stress: Strengthen your support network. (2022, October 21). https://www.apa.org. https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/manage-social-support