Relationship Anxiety Disorder

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 Do I Know If I Am In A Healthy Relationship?

Identifying a healthy relationship isn't always straightforward, but certain signs can help you gauge its quality. Here are key indicators:

1. Open Communication: In a healthy relationship, both partners should feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and dreams. If you consistently feel heard and valued without fear of judgment, this is a strong sign.

2. Mutual Respect: Respect is fundamental. This means honoring each other's boundaries, appreciating differences, and avoiding behaviors that would harm the other person emotionally or physically.

3. Trust and Honesty: Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship. You shouldn't constantly worry about who your partner is talking to or where they are, and your partner should feel the same about you. Openness and truthfulness strengthen trust.

4. Balance of Independence and Togetherness: While spending time together is crucial, maintaining your individuality is equally important. Healthy relationships don't suffocate personal growth or independence but rather support them.

5. Constructive Conflict Resolution: Disagreements are natural. The key is how you handle them. In a healthy relationship, conflicts are resolved through respectful discussion and compromise, not through blame or resentment.

Signs of Relationship Anxiety

However, if you constantly find yourself questioning your partner’s actions, feeling anxious about the future of your relationship, or obsessing over minor issues, these could be signs of relationship anxiety. While it's normal to have some concerns, persistent worry can be unhealthy.

Steps to Take

1. Communicate: Share your worries and challenges with your partner. Open dialogue can often alleviate concerns and strengthen your bond.

2. Self-Reflection: Understand the roots of your fears. Sometimes, recognizing the source can help you manage and address your anxiety more effectively.

3. Seek Help if Needed: If anxiety continues to overpower your relationship, consider seeking therapy. A professional can offer techniques to change negative thinking patterns and improve self-worth.

By recognizing these signs and taking appropriate actions, you can better understand the health of your relationship.

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.  

What Is The Difference Between Normal Anxiety And Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) In The Context Of Relationships?

Anxiety is a common experience, especially within relationships. However, distinguishing between normal anxiety and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) can be crucial for maintaining healthy interactions.

Normal Relationship Anxiety

Normal anxiety often emerges in relationships during significant events or transitions. It's the nervous excitement before meeting a partner’s family or the jitters before a big date. This type of anxiety is typically:

• Situational: Triggered by specific events or uncertainties.
• Temporary: Subsides once the trigger is resolved or the situation passes.
• Manageable: You can usually calm down with relaxation techniques or comforting thoughts.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Relationships

Generalized Anxiety Disorder, on the other hand, is more pervasive and chronic. It can deeply affect the dynamics of a relationship due to its persistent nature. GAD in relationships is characterized by:

• Constant Worry: Individuals with GAD often experience continuous, excessive worry about their relationship and their partner's feelings, beyond rational concerns.
• Physical Symptoms: This constant anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as fatigue, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping, impacting overall well-being.
• Functional Impact: GAD can hinder one’s ability to enjoy the relationship due to perpetual fears of rejection or uncontrollable thoughts about worst-case scenarios.

Key Differences Highlighted

1. Duration: Normal anxiety is fleeting, while GAD persists over months or even years.
2. Intensity: The worry in GAD is disproportionate to the actual situation, unlike the situational worry typical of normal anxiety.
3. Impact on Life: GAD often significantly disrupts daily activities and relationship harmony, whereas normal anxiety is less likely to cause major disruptions.

Recognizing these differences is essential. If you or your partner are struggling with persistent anxiety that affects your relationship, seeking guidance from a mental health professional can provide much-needed support.

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!   

Related Readings:  
Top Books on Managing Anxiety 
333 Anxiety Rule: What Is It and Does It Help?