Telling your parents about your recent anxiety attacks can feel daunting, but it's essential to share your feelings and experiences with the people who care about you. Here are some steps you can consider to approach the conversation:
Choose the Right Time and Place: Find a comfortable and private setting where you can talk without distractions or interruptions. Pick a time when your parents are likely to be relaxed and available to listen.
Be Honest and Open: Start the conversation by expressing your feelings honestly. You can say something like, "Mom/Dad, there's something important I'd like to talk to you about. Recently, I've been experiencing anxiety attacks, and I feel it's essential to share this with you."
Explain What Anxiety Attacks Are: Describe what anxiety attacks are and how they affect you. You can mention the physical and emotional symptoms you experience during an attack.
Share Your Experience: Talk about the specific instances when you had anxiety attacks and how they made you feel. Sharing your personal experiences can help your parents understand what you're going through.
Assure Them It's Not Their Fault: Sometimes, parents may worry that they somehow caused your anxiety. Reassure them that anxiety is a common mental health issue that can be caused by various factors and is not their fault.
Discuss Your Needs: Let your parents know if there's anything specific you need from them, whether it's emotional support, help finding a professional to talk to, or just understanding during difficult times.
Educate Them on Anxiety: If your parents are unfamiliar with anxiety, you can provide them with resources or information on anxiety disorders to help them understand better.
Express Your Desire for Help: If you feel you need professional support, tell your parents that you would like to seek help from a therapist or counselor. Having their support can be crucial in accessing the help you need.
Stay Calm and Patient: Understand that your parents may have various reactions to the news, and they might need time to process the information. Stay patient and be open to answering any questions they may have.
Follow Up: After the initial conversation, continue to communicate with your parents about your feelings and experiences. Let them know how you're doing and if you've taken any steps towards getting help.
Remember, reaching out to your parents is an important step, but if you feel uncomfortable doing so, consider talking to another trusted adult, like a school counselor, teacher, or another family member. The key is to seek support and not face anxiety alone. If your anxiety is severely impacting your life, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for guidance and treatment.