Strained Romantic Connections: Recognizing Warning Signs and Strategies for Managing
Relationship anxiety is a persistent fear, worry, or doubt about a current romantic relationship, as recognised by psychiatrists, counselors, or doctors. This condition, while not officially recognised as a disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), can still be a cause for concern for those experiencing it.
One common symptom of relationship-based anxiety is self-silencing, where individuals remain quiet about their feelings, opinions, or thoughts for fear of rejection and to help prevent it. This can lead to a need for constant reassurance from one's partner and a tendency to go out of one's way to please them, potentially ignoring one's own needs and wants.
Excessive reassurance-seeking is another symptom that may be related to interpersonal dependency. This behaviour can be a sign of relationship-based anxiety, as well as depression or anxiety disorders.
In some cases, a doctor may prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) for relationship-related anxiety. However, since there are no specific guidelines for treating relationship anxiety, doctors and therapists may need feedback and active participation from the individual to develop a treatment plan.
Therapies recommended for treating relationship anxiety include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), schema therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and deep psychological therapy. A therapist may also suggest mindfulness training or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help manage relationship-related anxiety.
Communicating feelings with a partner can help improve feelings of worry and distress. Pausing and observing feelings, practicing self-compassion, and communicating these feelings to a partner or journaling may also help manage relationship-related anxiety.
In addition, couples counseling may help reduce relationship-related anxiety. A therapist can help identify if one or a partner is experiencing anxiety related to the relationship, and work with both parties to develop strategies for managing it.
It's important to note that there is no clear-cut cause of anxiety in relationships. Possible contributing factors may include low self-esteem, previous relationship issues, and how one has learned to attach to other people.
Relationship anxiety may have similar symptoms to social anxiety disorder, such as fear of rejection. However, communicating feelings may help alleviate these feelings, making it easier to navigate through the challenges of a romantic relationship.
Journaling may be a helpful way to understand and manage relationship-related anxiety. By writing down thoughts and feelings, individuals can gain insight into their emotions and develop strategies for managing their anxiety.
In conclusion, while relationship anxiety is not officially recognised as a disorder, it can still have a significant impact on an individual's life. Seeking help from a doctor, therapist, or through counselling can provide valuable support and strategies for managing this type of anxiety.
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