Anxiety
Let's take a closer look.
Sarah had another rough wedding anniversary this year. Now she is having trouble getting to sleep at night, has a stomach ache several mornings during the week and says she can’t go to work. What can you do as a partner wanting to help?
First recognize that it may not mean something terrible is happening at home or work. Sarah may be someone who is dealing with high anxiety on a regular basis. Marriage requires hard work especially during times of stress. Conflicts escalate and communication often shuts down.
What can you do today?
-Help your partner name their feelings and the intensity of those feelings.
-Give empathy for their experience and validate their feelings.
-Brainstorming about possible solutions and practical ways to reach temporary compromises.
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Anxiety
Jack has been at his job for 3 years. He is doing well and likes his job in management at a local hotel. But lately he has been restless. His goal of moving to a bigger hotel hasn’t happened. He doesn’t have time to apply for new positions. He is not as active physically and socially now that his job has him working some weekends. His friends are reporting he is irritable and doesn’t have time for the weekly basketball game. Jack has missed a few days of work in the past weeks because of headaches which land him in bed for hours trying to recover. He is overwhelmed.
What can you do today?
-Take a look at your career goals. Are they still on target? Do you need to change the goals or tweek the timeline? Be realistic and highlight your strengths.
-Ask yourself a few questions, ‘Are you still challenged in your current position?’ ‘Do you enjoy those you work with and do you enjoy the work?’
-Make more time for yourself and start a new hobby or volunteer somewhere you are passionate about serving.
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