[Yzen]

Does anyone else 'take on' the anxiety of others? For example, if I have a relative having a difficult problem or going through difficult times, sometimes I feel as much stress as they do about their situation and can't seem to shake the anxiety. I have enough anxiety for myself, so I don't know why I take on their anxiety. Is there some way to stop doing this to myself?

[*Laurie*]

Yes, I take on loved ones' anxiety. If you're an empathetic person, that's what you tend to do. Sometimes it takes limiting time spent with the anxious person, or envisioning a "healthy wall" between you and the person.

[Yzen]

Originally Posted by LauraBeth

envisioning a "healthy wall" between you and the person.

Thanks. That is an interesting idea. I wonder if there is a way to 'detach' from the anxiety in some way, but still be supportive.

[MusicLover82]

I think I only tend to do that when I subconsciously feel like I need to "fix" that other person's problems. Tell yourself "I can't fix his/her issues, but I can be present and offer sympathy." Also, tell yourself he/she can take care of herself and your job is just to be loving and present. That can help provide a healthy detachment. I am dealing with this same issue with my husband and I think I'm finally starting to learn how to do this.

[*Laurie*]

I think we can detach from the other person's anxiety and still be supportive. Tell yourself, 'This is not MY anxiety, it belongs to so-and-so. I can be most helpful by retaining my sens of self'...imagine that impermeable wall that surrounds you in order to protect you, while still feeling sympathy. And so on.