“Calm down.” “Just relax.” “Don’t worry about it.” “Stop stressing out.” “It will be fine.” “Don’t get so upset.” We have all probably been told these phrases, or something similar, by another person when we were angry, anxious, or stressed. We may even ourselves be guilty of saying them to another person. But did it help? Most likely not at all, and more likely it just made us, or the other person, angrier, more anxious, or even more stressed. When our emotions are at a very high level or seemingly out of our control, being told something that seems obvious or “simple” can appear like a brush off, uncaring or uninterested, or that we were misunderstood. So what should you say or do when someone is angry, anxious, or stressed out?

• I know things may feel overwhelming but I want you to know that I’m proud of your and how well you’re coping.
• It’s okay to prioritise yourself you deserve to do this.
• I know hanging out in a big group can be a bit overstimulating when your anxiety sets in, but how about we do something just the two of us?
• Please be patient and gentle with yourself – you’re doing better than you think.

All these texts will mean so much to someone with anxiety. Please be generous in sharing them.