Financial Concerns
Although many people with anxiety disorders continue to work, some fear their anxiety will interfere with their job or may cause them to lose their job. In addition, people with anxiety have been found to be scared of losing their job because of anxiety systems. In addition, people with anxiety are more likely to argue with their colleagues or to avoid communicating with them. Many people with anxiety also miss almost three times as much work as those people without anxiety. These concerns may cause people with anxiety to make less money than their counterparts without anxiety.
Couples fight about money frequently. Economic problems are considered to be one of the major reasons for divorce and separation. For people with anxiety, economic problems may cause even more problems, with the partner with anxiety constantly worrying about finances, even during times when finances are not a problem.
Communication
Communication is one of the most important aspects of any relationship and many adults with anxiety avoid open and honest communication because of their fears. Part of the problem may be in being able to communicate feelings and how anxiety impacts daily life. Without being able to openly communicate this information, a partner is not able to understand the effect of anxiety. According to the survey completed by ADAA, people with anxiety reported their relationships improved once they were able to explain their illness to the important people in their lives.
Although anxiety can impact a relationship in many different ways, the important thing to remember is that anxiety is a treatable disorder. Treatment often consists of a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. There is a high rate of improvement once treatment has begun. And based on the responses of the survey on relationships conducted by ADAA, once people received treatment, their relationships improved.
Sources:
“What is the Impact of An Anxiety Disorder on Family and Friends?”, 2008, Feb 27, Kendall Genre, M.D., ABC News On Call
“New Survey Reveals How Generalized Anxiety Disorder Interferes With the Ability to Maintain “Healthy” Relationships”, 2004, July 20, Anxiety Disorders Association of America
“Anxiety Disorders in the Workplace”, Date Unknown, Author Unknown, Anxiety Disorders Association of America
