Anxiety and panic can be overwhelming experiences, leaving you feeling trapped and alone. It's natural to want to reach out to your loved ones for support, but knowing how to approach the conversation can be difficult. It's important to remember that you are not alone in your struggles and that talking about them can help you find the support you need to manage them.

When I was 15, I suffered from severe anxiety and panic attacks. It was a difficult time for me, and I often felt like I was the only one going through it. I didn't know how to talk to my loved ones about what I was going through, and I was afraid that they wouldn't understand or would judge me for it.

Eventually, I realized that I couldn't hide my struggles. I needed to talk to someone about it. I remember that I also had to speak to my mum at one point. I was nervous, but I knew that she loved me and would support me no matter what.

I couldn’t really explain how I felt, I just knew I wasn’t happy, and I felt incredibly anxious around people and in new situations. I could see the concern in her eyes, but she listened patiently and asked questions when she needed clarification. She knew something needed to be done as I was even struggling with family gatherings and sometimes couldn’t eat in front of even close family. My hands would often shake and I didn’t speak much either.

After I finished talking, my mum said she would find someone to help me. She encouraged me to seek help from a professional and supported me each time we attended session. I felt a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. Talking to her about my anxiety made me feel less alone, giving me the courage to seek the help I needed.

If you're struggling with anxiety and panic, here are some tips for talking to your loved ones about it:

• Choose a time when you're both relaxed and not rushed. You want to have enough time to talk without feeling like you're on a tight schedule.

• Start by letting them know you want to talk to them about something important. This step will help them to focus and give you their full attention.

• Use "I" statements. For example, "I've been feeling anxious lately" or "I have panic attacks." This statement helps avoid blaming or accusing language, making the conversation more difficult. Instead, explain what anxiety and panic feel like for you. Use specific examples to help them understand what you're going through.

• Let them know what they can do to help you. It could be as simple as just listening or offering a hug when needed.

• Ask for their support. Let them know that you appreciate them and that their support means a lot to you.

• Be patient. Your loved ones may need time to process what you're telling them. Give them the space to do so, and be open to answering any questions they may have.

The fact remains that talking to your loved ones about your anxiety and panic can be scary but also incredibly helpful. Just remember that it's essential to have a support system in place to help you manage your symptoms and feel less alone.

If you still have trouble talking to them, consider contacting a professional for help. A therapist or counsellor can provide additional strategies for managing your symptoms and offer support as you navigate this difficult time.

It's important to remember that your loved ones may not always know how to support you in the way you need. They may say things that mean well but are not helpful, or they may struggle to understand what you're going through. So ensure you communicate your needs and boundaries clearly and be patient with them as they learn how to support you.

One thing that can be helpful in this process is to focus on the present moment. So often, anxiety and panic can come with racing thoughts and a sense of being overwhelmed. By focusing on the present moment and what you need at that moment, you can help to ground yourself and communicate your needs more effectively.

Talking to your loved ones about your anxiety and panic is an act of vulnerability and courage. It can be scary to open up and share your struggles, but it's also an essential step towards healing and finding the support you need. Whether it's a family member, friend, or partner, there are people in your life who care about you and want to help you through this difficult time. So don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help when you need it.

In conclusion, anxiety and panic are shared experiences that many people struggle with. Talking to your loved ones about what you're going through can be scary, but it's an essential step towards finding the support you need. Remember to be patient with yourself and your loved ones, and don't be afraid to seek professional help if needed. You don't have to go through this alone, and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Your struggles with anxiety and panic do not define you. With the proper support and resources, you can learn to manage them and live a fulfilling life.

You can book a complimentary 15-minute call to chat with me about your struggles. I am equipped to help you calm your body and mind through 1:1 Talk Therapy or if you are in the UK, through my relaxing Facial Therapy Deluxe.