While there has been more talk about anxiety and depression lately, it can still be difficult to tell if a friend or family member has symptoms of anxiety. Anxiety is a common mental health condition in the U.S., and around 18% of the population will suffer from this condition at some point in their lives. Sometimes, you may not notice what a person is feeling, since they may conceal their anxious feelings so they can be more productive or avoid judgment from others. However, anxiety takes a toll on the body and mind and can be extremely damaging.

If someone close to you is suffering from anxiety, you may be wondering what you can do to help. There are several natural treatments you may want to explore that will calm the mind and body. Participating in some of these anti-anxiety techniques with your loved one can make the treatments for anxiety more effective. Here are a few suggestions you may want to try.

Using CBD Products

If you’re wondering “can CBD cause anxiety?”, you should check with your loved one’s physician. Some people are more likely to experience anxiety when taking CBD products if they are already anxious or currently taking certain prescription medications. However, CBD calms the nervous system for the most part. Using CBD topically or internally can balance neurotransmitters in the brain that promote a healthy and balanced mood. If your friend or family member is trying CBD for the first time, you may want to start with gummies or teas that are infused with CBD. Topical and internal CBD products also help ease joint and muscle pain that can sometimes come with anxiety.

Be Supportive

It’s important that you show your loved ones that you’re here to support them. This includes not forcing your friend or relative to confront the things that make them anxious. You may think you’re helping by doing this, but this tactic could lead to more anxiety. Instead, show your loved ones that you validate their anxiety. Instead of asking why they would get upset over something that seems small to you, be sensitive and try to understand where your relative is coming from.

Learning to overcome anxiety triggers is likely something your friend or family member will have to do with a professional therapist. If your loved one is open to it, you can refer them to a counselor or therapist that you know of.

Participate in Yoga and Meditation

If your loved one feels calmer when they’re doing things with you, you can suggest yoga or meditation. Meditation helps the body let go of fear and worry, and concentrating on breathing can reduce anxious thoughts. Regular meditation can also reduce blood pressure and migraine headaches, which are often physical symptoms of anxiety.

Yoga allows the body to achieve a feeling of ease and promotes adequate blood flow to the brain to reduce negative emotions and boost serotonin. Poses like the hero pose, fish pose, triangle pose, and tree pose help to improve flexibility and promote overall health.

In addition to these practical suggestions, you can also offer your loved one additional vitamins and supplements that can keep anxiety at bay. B vitamins are vital for brain health, and a vitamin D supplement could be beneficial if your friend or family member is not able to get outside often. A balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is also important for brain health. Offering to make some wholesome meals for your friend or family member can help them with anxiety and let them know how much you truly care for them.