How to handle a relationship with anxiety

Being in a romantic relationship can be really hard to navigate sometimes, especially if you have anxiety. Here are a few tips to help you strengthen your relationship.

Communicate with your partner

If you have anxiety then you should let your partner know. While it’s obviously not necessary you do this on the first date it is something you should bring up. Communication is the key to starting and maintaining any healthy relationship. A good partner will be understanding of your anxiety and will be happy that you felt comfortable enough to share your feelings with them.

Try new things

Having anxiety can sometimes make you want to stay inside all day or follow a strict routine, but it’s important to try new things with your partner. Try to include yourself in their interests and do things with them you might not normally try on your own. Maybe your partner would like to go canoeing or maybe an amusement park. Try to broaden your horizons, but remember it’s always okay to say no if it’s something you’re really not comfortable with.

That includes social events 

Yes, sometimes you’re gonna need to go to crowded, uncomfortable, anxiety-inducing social events. You’ll probably need to meet your partner’s family or go out with a group of their friends, but at least you get to do it with your partner by your side. The memories you make will be worth the effort.

Take care of yourself 

Having a partner can be a great source of support in your life, but it’s important to remember it just support. It’s up to you as an individual to take care of yourself and to be happy. Partners are people who want to be together, not need to be together. If your anxiety reaches a point that it begins to negatively affect your life then talk to your partner about it, but make sure to rely on a therapist for any significant help.