In the moment? I usually say, "my anxiety is really bad right now, I need a few minutes to calm down" and remove myself from the situation.
After, I consider what it was that made me anxious (maybe write it down in a journal) and then communicate to my partner that it triggered my anxiety. Usually, we'll have a discussion and decide that either
(A) my partner avoids doing the thing/creating the stimulus that triggered my anxiety
(B) I find (healthy) ways to cope with the anxiety or
(C) We agree that I can remove myself from the situation when the stimulus triggers anxiety
Thanks Raz. In this case it was a trigger that reminded me of an ex, and I have this terrible fear that my brain is going to associate my new amazing partner with the bad things of my ex.
The association would be with the stimulus, not necessarily your partner. Two people can do the same thing and be remarkably different people. Over time, your association with the stimulus might become positive, reminding you of your new partner more often than your ex
☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision
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ThatOneNerd
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What do you do when you get anxiety triggered by something your partner inadvertently does?
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Anxiety (Including GAD)
Raz
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ThatOneNerd
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Raz
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ThatOneNerd
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☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision