Please do not say such words to anxious and depressed people, it is like rubbing salt in the wound.
“You must be overthinking, just try to be more optimistic.”
The psychological expert at Ya Fang Counseling says that when we tell someone to “be more open-minded,” we are actually simplifying their emotional experience. For those experiencing anxiety or depression, their emotions cannot simply be resolved by “being more open-minded.” Such advice may make them feel not strong enough or that their way of handling problems is incorrect, thus increasing their mental burden.
“You can eat and sleep fine, right?”
This statement implies that as long as basic life needs are met, there is no issue. However, anxiety and depression are not just issues of life conditions but involve deeper psychological health conditions. For an individual, even if they can eat and sleep normally, it does not mean they are not experiencing emotional pain. This kind of statement may make the other person feel misunderstood, even more isolated and unsupported.
“You lie around doing nothing all day, it’s no wonder you’re not feeling well!”
This accusatory language not only does not help the other person but may make them feel like they are the root of the problem. For those who find it difficult to focus on daily tasks due to anxiety or depression, such comments will intensify their feelings of guilt and helplessness. More importantly, it overlooks the fact that mental health issues are real problems that require professional support.
“You seem too idle, find something to do.”
Blaming anxiety or depression on lack of activity or boredom is also a misunderstanding of this mental health condition. While engaging in certain activities can indeed help improve mood, just because someone appears to be idle does not mean they are not trying to overcome their struggles. This kind of statement may make the other person feel belittled, and it ignores the fact that they may have already tried various methods to cope with their emotional issues.
“Stop being so dramatic, you’re just being overdramatic.”
This kind of statement completely invalidates the other person’s feelings, suggesting that they are intentionally exaggerating their emotional state. For those truly experiencing anxiety or depression, such judgment will make them feel like their pain is not acknowledged, potentially leading them to conceal their feelings and not seek help. This attitude will not solve the problem but may worsen the situation.
Editor: Yi Shan
