Anxiety is a mental health disorder. It is determined by the level and duration someone experiences feelings of worry, fear, or anxiety attacks which deplete the ability to complete daily activities. A relationship anxiety disorder shares similar attributes and side effects but is specifically triggered during an intimate relationship with another person. Feeling overly anxious in a relationship may cause discomfort and stress, which may harm a person’s emotional and cognitive stability.
How Does Anxiety Disorder Affect Relationships
Anxiety in relationships is no joke. Realizing the signs and behaviors can help prevent long-term stress or depressive episodes. If you are wondering if you are experiencing relationship anxiety, here is a list that includes common signs:
Overly clingy
Anxiety attacks
Keeping secrets
Lack of self-esteem
Decreased sex drive
Inability to fully trust
Overthinking scenarios
Suddenly causing conflict
Experiencing negative self-talk
Overthinking childhood trauma
Looking for reasons to break up
Displaying inappropriate jealousy
Feeling rejected or fear of rejection
Fear of being judged by your partner
Checking your partner’s text or social media
Constantly questioning your partner's feelings
Comparing childhood trauma to the relationship
Anxiety in a relationship can take a toll on you and your partner’s well-being. Anxiety can overwhelm a person, causing them to overthink, which leads to a lack of trust or a secure connection. After realizing these feelings and thoughts, it’s important to communicate with your partner to find a solution.
How Anxiety Affects Marriage
Couples with anxiety or only one spouse who struggles with a relationship anxiety disorder may express worrisome behaviors such as constantly declining sex or avoiding intimate pleasures. Reasons for the anxiety may not primarily be from insecurities or doubts about the future of the relationship but stem from financial strain, lack of a social life, or lack of communication. If a spouse is feeling neglected due to lack of communication or not feeling appreciated, then anxiety begins to formulate. In this case, it’s essential to acknowledge each emotion and not dismiss it to prevent emotional build-up. Motivational interviewing and other therapeutic methods can help reduce symptoms and establish skills that will help regulate emotions or prevent an attack.
How to Fix Relationship Anxiety
Listening is the first step in reducing relationship anxiety disorder symptoms and effects. Establishing a non-judgmental zone in the household where each spouse can communicate and respect each other. Researching skillful approaches or trying solution-focused brief therapy methods may help mend or grow a relationship. First, identify what the trigger of the anxiety is and make a note of how you respond to the specific trigger. Always be honest about how you are feeling and try different calming techniques that will help you to be present during the overwhelming emotions. Try not to compare your relationship with past trauma and practice optimistic approaches to fix problems.
Treatment at Our Mental Health Care in Boca Raton
At Banyan Treatment Centers Mental Health, we care about how you feel. We offer unique services like our Faith in Recovery program and individual therapy so patients can reconnect emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Our experienced medical staff desires patients to feel welcomed and properly guided through the designed treatment process. Speak to a specialist at Banyan Mental Health by calling 888-280-4763, and don’t wait to get started on the path to recovery today!
Alyssa is Banyan’s Director of Digital Marketing & Technology. After overcoming her own struggles with addiction, she began working in the treatment field in 2012. She graduated from Palm Beach State College in 2016 with additional education in Salesforce University programs. A part of the Banyan team since 2016, Alyssa brings over 5 years of experience in the addiction treatment field.