[erysichthon]

I was wondering if anyone had any experiences with telling a friend of significant other that they suffer from anxiety and/or anything else. Sooner or later I'm going to have a tell a girl I'm dating, provided it lasts that long, that I have anxiety. But I'm afraid, of course, that it will make me look weak or unattractive to her. All I want from her is understanding. Has anyone done this and gotten a good response? Bad response? In between? Please share.

[Pebbles420]

When I started dating my live in partner of 3 years now, I never told him I suffer from anxiety/panic attacks. At the time I was functioning well so I never thought about bringing it up. Not until I started getting the attacks again.

I understand why you might feel hesitant to say anything because I did too. I was afraid of him seeing me as "crazy"...some people don't understand anxiety/panic attacks are very common. I could not hold it anymore and told him what was going on. Thankfully he has been very supportive and understanding, he tries to take me everywhere in order to prevent an attack.

I think that if she really cares about you, she'll understand and support you. If she thinks you're weird then she's not the person you should be with. You should tell her and see what her reaction is.

Good Luck,

Patricia

luckily, my SO also has panic attacks........but my ex-husband didn't understand. didn't try to.......so it's a mixed bag.....good luck, pat

[mistyberkowitz]

My results have varied-- sensitive friends and SOs have understood and been there for me, giving me what I needed. I had one BF who just never got it. That relationship didn't last long. I have found telling people about it, and them lovingly receiving my share helps me have fewer panic attacks... it's like the loving person is always there just in case so I feel safer. Good luck to you!