Unmasking Anxiety: Decoding the 'Impolite' Behaviors That Speak Louder Than Words
Unfortunately, if you suffer from depression, you will also be likely to express some form of anxiety; this article shows just some of the behaviours; there are many more.
Living with anxiety can be a daily struggle, often leading to misunderstood behaviours and being labelled "impolite." I want to explore how anxiety manifests in individuals' lives, urging a more empathetic perspective.
Anxiety is more than overthinking and overplanning; it can make individuals engage in actions that may appear rude to others. Many individuals leave social gatherings without saying goodbye or avoiding calls, texts, and emails due to overwhelming anxiety. Others may unexpectedly lash out at loved ones. These behaviours may seem impolite, but they are often a result of internal battles with anxiety.
In our group, many participants have shared their experiences of "impolite" behaviours of anxiety; these are just a few.
Often agrees to plans but backs out at the last minute, feeling relieved yet guilty.
Purposely ignores calls and texts and lies to friends about a reluctance to go out.
Avoids responding to messages out of fear, even when they're innocuous.
Sometimes, spacing out during conversations, trapped in anxious thoughts.
Interrupting people, unable to hold back what they want to say.
Admits to being snappy due to anxiety despite not wanting to be.
Resorts to using a phone in social settings as a coping mechanism for anxiety.
Uncontrollably laughs during serious situations, leading to misunderstandings.
Resorts to nail-biting as a response to anxiety.
Oscillates between staying silent and feeling the need to speak excessively.
Understanding these "impolite" behaviours through the lens of anxiety allows us to foster empathy and support for those who struggle silently. Let's encourage open discussions about anxiety and promote a more compassionate understanding of one another's challenges.
Please find out more at our fortnightly Depression and Hope Support Groups.
Written by Rob Hoile, Tanilba Bay Group Coordinator.