On a typical day, I often find myself feeling a bit anxious. Perhaps it’s the chaos of raising three teenagers who seem to have endless needs or maybe there’s something deeper rooted from my past that makes me more prone to worry than others. Regardless, anxiety is a part of who I am. From as far back as I can remember, I’ve always been concerned about what’s lurking around the corner.
After becoming a parent, my anxiety intensified, morphing into a nearly overwhelming force. Suddenly, my worries extended beyond my own life to encompass the well-being of my children. Major life events, no matter how positive they may seem, can easily send someone like me spiraling. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the approaching election, and the challenge of managing my kids at home, the weight of anxiety feels especially heavy and terrifying.
Anxiety craves answers and seeks control, often pulling us into dark, overwhelming places. Right now, many individuals are grappling with their mental health, and it’s crucial that we support one another. In these uncertain times, it’s common to feel powerless as the world shifts beneath our feet. We want to take action and reclaim some sense of normalcy.
If you’re searching for ways to support those you care about, make it a point to check in on friends and family who struggle with anxiety. Allowing your thoughts to wander unchecked can lead to a downward spiral, and for some, controlling those frightening thoughts can be incredibly difficult.
A simple text or phone call could make a significant difference, preventing someone from sinking deeper into their fears. They might initially respond with “I’m fine,” but don’t hesitate to gently prod further if you sense they need support.
Just yesterday, while parked in my car, I received a call from a friend named Lisa, who I had been chatting with earlier about the challenges of homeschooling and working from home during this pandemic. Instead of the usual pleasantries, she jumped right in with, “Are you doing okay?” Had she opted for a text, I would have most likely replied with a hollow “I’m fine,” while fighting back tears. Yet, hearing the concern in her voice prompted me to share my true feelings.
That check-in provided me with a much-needed boost against my anxiety. We took a moment to reflect on the positives in our lives—our health, our jobs, the joy of spring on the horizon. Focusing on gratitude helped to ease my anxiety and enabled me to tackle the day ahead in a way I wouldn’t have managed without her support.
Remember, we’re all in this together. There’s immense comfort in knowing you’re not alone and that people care enough to listen. After my conversation with Lisa, I began thinking of others in my life who could benefit from a kind word or check-in.
So, take a moment to reach out to your friends and family who might be struggling with anxiety. If they say they’re fine but you suspect otherwise, don’t hesitate to ask again. Remind them that their feelings are valid and that you’re there to listen. Encourage them to take breaks from the news if it’s overwhelming, and gently nudge them to prioritize their health—sleep, nutrition, and self-care matter.
Everyone copes differently in times of uncertainty, but connecting with one another can be the key to navigating these challenging times. It may not eliminate our anxiety, but it can help us all move forward together. For more insights on navigating fertility treatments and anxiety, check out this excellent resource from March of Dimes.
In summary, reaching out to those struggling with anxiety is essential in these turbulent times. A simple gesture can provide much-needed reassurance and connection, reminding us that we’re not alone in this journey.
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