How does Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) affect your life as a couple? Among mental illnesses, anxiety is currently considered one of the leading health problems in the world and there is a lot of talk about the impact of anxiety on work. However, how does it affect your love life? Contexts damaged by anxiety Izabelle Santos, psychologist […]
How does Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) affect your life as a couple?
Among mental illnesses, anxiety is currently considered one of the leading health problems in the world and there is a lot of talk about the impact of anxiety on work. However, how does it affect your love life? Contexts damaged by anxiety Izabelle Santos, psychologist at the Anchieta hospital in Brasilia, states that anxiety can negatively influence relationships, as it can:
- Make communication difficult;
- Generate insecurities;
- Require constant care;
- Partners avoid social situations;
- Impact on sexual life;
- It creates a cycle of constant worry and additional stress in the environment.
“It is critical that both partners understand and support the anxious person to minimize these effects.”
More confusing feelings
Mental illnesses can have a significant impact on communication in a relationship as they can make expressing feelings much more difficult. “In this context, it is normal for misunderstandings and insecurities to arise between the parties involved. To overcome these difficulties, it is essential to adopt an approach that involves patience, empathy and, above all, the creation of an environment of mutual support. Furthermore, encourage emotional openness, listening carefully to others and considering the possibility of resorting to joint or individual therapy are important steps that can help improve the dynamics of communication”, underlines the professional.
Have empathy!
Understanding anxiety from your partner who doesn’t have the disorder is extremely important to developing a healthy relationship. “First, this understanding creates empathy, which is key to strengthening communication between partners and, consequently, reducing misunderstandings. Furthermore, awareness of anxiety allows the partner to offer more effective support, while also helping to establish healthy boundaries for both parties. This makes it easier to encourage the anxious partner to seek treatment when needed. This attitude helps create an environment of mutual understanding, which promotes resilience and strength in the relationship,” says Izabelle. .
Third element
Signs that anxiety is invading the relationship:
- Difficulty in communication;
- Avoid social situations;
- Changes in sexual life;
- Increased stress in the relationship.
Strategies for couples
According to Izabelle, effective strategies for promoting empathy and mutual understanding in a relationship with someone suffering from anxiety include.
- Open communication about feelings and challenges associated with anxiety;
- Active practice of empathic listening, without judgment;
- Joint anxiety education to improve mutual understanding;
- Set clear limits to ensure support without overloading;
- Encourage the anxious partner to seek professional treatment when necessary;
- Joint participation in relaxing activities to strengthen emotional connection.
“These strategies help build an environment of understanding and support in the relationship,” adds the professional.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
