Things Never To Say To A Person Having Anxiety Attack

Anxiety mostly stems from our subconscious mind and there is very less we can do consciously to stop it

08 Oct, 2022

Kashish Sharma

Watch your words

Anxiety mostly stems from our subconscious mind and there is very less we can do consciously to stop it. A few common statements might feel like the right thing to a friend who is having an anxiety attack but sometimes these harmless words can do more harm than good.

Source: Thehealthsite

“Just calm down”

With their body in a fight or flight state, they can't calm down at that moment. Instead, show that you are with them using words.

Source: Thehealthsite

“Not a big deal”

This statement might minimalize their distress and make them feel more lonely in their experience. Validate them by saying that you can see they are worried.

Source: Thehealthsite

“It’s all in your head”

Anxiety attack feels real for those who go through them. Invalidating someone’s experience of discomfort will never help them.

Source: Thehealthsite

“I know how you feel”

Sharing your own stories of dealing with anxiety and making yourself the focus might not be a good technique to calm your friend. They are in need to be heard not compared with anyone.

Source: Thehealthsite

“What is making you anxious”

It might seem like the most logical question at that time but anxiety stems from the unconscious and in most cases, the one suffering from it is as clueless as you as to why it is happening to them.

Source: Thehealthsite

“Stop worrying”

An anxiety attack is an impulsive and irrational phenomenon. Any amount of logical thinking can’t calm down the person during the attack. You must know they are not able to control the rush of thoughts.

Source: Thehealthsite

“Just breathe”

A person having an anxiety attack has their breathing haywire. It might not be a good idea to bring their attention to their breathing at this point.

Source: Thehealthsite

“Have you tried”

Many people find it logical to come up with the best healing recommendations like yoga, meditation and others. However, the right way is to help them instantly with something that works for them at that moment.

Source: Thehealthsite

Thanks For Reading!

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