Mary I hear how worried you are about your daughter. Here is an article that will have some ideas for things she can do to help strengthen herself against anxiety and depression. Exercise and meditation are really important and have been shown by extensive research to strengthen the brain against both anxiety and depression https://www.heysigmund.com/anxiety-in-teens/. Here is an article that specifically talks about the importance of exercise https://www.heysigmund.com/activity-restores-vital-neurochemical-protects-anxietyepression/ and this one talks about mindfulness https://www.heysigmund.com/overcoming-anxiety-mindfulness/. It sounds as though you are being an incredible support for her. Keep doing what you’re doing. It’s a tough time right now, but she can get through this and come out stronger for it.

Dale absolutely there is hope! Keep doing what you’re doing. If your anxiety has been there for a while it can take a while too turn it around – but for sure you can do that. Keep going. You’re going to get there.

Please tell me there is hope!!!!!!

Bonnie I’m so pleased you found this article. All loving, close relationships have their challenges, and being aware of what you’re dealing with is such an important part of working through those challenges together. We are all a beautiful work in progress. Love and strength to both of you x

Rive I completely understand how confusing and frustrating this can be. You’re absolutely right – you can’t make someone change themselves. Anxiety can be so powerful and so intrusive. The main thing to remember is that nobody wants anxiety. When things are calm, talk about what helps and what gets in the way. Then, in the midst of anxiety stick to what you have discussed. Asking for what the person needs is supportive, but as with all of us, healing can be sabotaged in the midst of the struggle because we ask for the support we want, which is often more than the support we need. It can be hard to find clarity around this. Also remember to focus on the strengths of the person and the relationship between you both. There will be plenty. Anxiety has a way of putting a cloud over everything. I can hear how important this person is to you and how much you want to do the right them by them. Remember to look after you too and it is always okay to talk about what you need as well.