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Relationship anxiety

Posted: Wed Sep 19, 2018 7:19 pm
by funkiichiicka
What's the best way to approach anxiety in relationships? For example, telling someone you are dating that you suffer with anxiety. My anxiety seems to be at it's worst in relationships with paranoia etc. There's always the fear that it would put them off.

Re: Relationship anxiety

Posted: Thu Sep 20, 2018 7:53 pm
by Teyhou Smyth
Hi,

Pursuing a romantic relationship can sometimes feel like a dangerous game. Dating requires a certain amount of vulnerability, and it comes with the risk of getting hurt or being disappointed. Because of the uncertain outcome, people can experience a fair amount of anxiety about their current romantic relationship or the hurdles of pursuing a new one.

If you’re not sure whether anxiety is present in your romantic relationship, consider moments or issues that make you feel worried. If you’re uncertain whether anxiety is causing problems in your romantic life, ask yourself the following questions.

• Do you have worries that prevent you from dating or pursuing relationships?
• Do you experience increased anxiety around sexual intimacy?
• Do you rely heavily on your partner to reassure you or calm anxious thoughts?
• Do you avoid serious conversations with your partner because you are afraid of conflict?
• Do you constantly fear that your partner is going to leave you?
• Do you experience anxiety when your partner is away?
• Do you convince yourself your partner is unfaithful with no evidence?

Some tips to manage relationship anxiety include is to never assume that you have to learn to manage anxiety in relationships by yourself. Individual counseling can help you manage your fears about relationships or take steps towards a happier dating life. Also, examine your thinking. Anxiety makes it difficult to objectively assess whether a worry is legitimate. Consider whether you need to work on managing your anxiety through healthy habits, communicate better with your partner, or address issues of concern in the relationship.

Further support is available through the British Association od Counsellors and Psychotherapists http://bacp.co.uk for relationship anxiety.