As someone who deals with social anxiety, I know the importance of having friends who support my needs and understand how social anxiety functions. Despite being some of the most common mental illnesses, anxiety disorders are still highly misunderstood and stigmatized. I’m lucky to have amazingly supportive friends who I can rely on. Because of how anxiety works, I often rely on their understanding so that I don’t have to constantly explain myself and remind them of what my needs are. It’s nice to have reminders now and again that show me they totally get me, or at least that they’re doing their best to be supportive.
Most of all, sometimes I need something that’ll make me chuckle.
Anna Borges of Buzzfeed created these great greeting cards for people who have friends with social anxiety problems, and they are totally perfect. (#5 is my favorite.)
The next time you think your anxious friend needs it, send them one of these cards to brighten their day:
1. “Sorry I Left You Alone At That Party”
You left your anxious friend in a sea of unknown people, the number one socializing no-no for people with anxiety. It’s okay, you’ll remember next time.
2. “Let’s Stay In And Watch Netflix”
Watching something means you’re less obligated to make lots of conversation, and you can relax somewhere comfy and calm with lots of blankets. This is a much better alternative to that ill-fated party.
3. “Hey: Our Conversation From Two Weeks Ago That You Keep Replaying Over And Over In Your Head Wasn’t Awkward At All. In Fact It Was Quite Delightful.”
You’re never going to get a direct invitation to send this card, but it’ll probably be valid any time you send it to your anxious friend. The worrying is non-stop.
4. “Good For One Canceled Plan”
“In terms of like, instant relief, cancelling plans is like heroin.” – John Mulaney
5. “Have You Tried Meditation? (Just Kidding. I Know It’s More Complicated Than That)”
A good friend won’t suggest you “eat lots of fruit” or “do yoga” to combat a legitimate psychological condition.
6. “You Are Not A Burden”
Sometimes, it’s just nice to have a reminder that you don’t think your anxious friend is a burden for being who they are. Repeated reminders may be necessary.
7. “I Will Call For Delivery When Seamless Is Down So You Don’t Have To.”
Online food ordering is a gift from the heavens. If that’s not available, as a good friend, you are the designated phone-talker.
8. “I Will Never Leave You Hanging”
A perpetual typing bubble or an unfinished reply can cause anxious people a ton of stress. Don’t be ‘that guy’.
9. “You Are The Best Kind Of F*cked Up”
It’s easy to feel like your anxiety makes you irredeemably messed up. So let your friend know you love ’em anyway.
10. “I’m Sorry Your Mind Won’t Calm The F*ck Down”
Racing thoughts aren’t easily tamed when you have an anxiety disorder, but it might help a little for your friend to know that you acknowledge how much it must suck.
11. “Heads Up: We’re Throwing You A Surprise Party”
Surprise parties seem fun, but an unexpected social gathering is a nightmare for people with anxiety. (Your friend can always pretend they’re surprised.)
12. “Thank You For Sharing What You’re Going Through With Me”
It’s hard to open up to someone and risk a lack of understanding or support. Showing how much you appreciate being trusted is an important gesture.
13. “Good For Unlimited Guilt-Free Mental Health Days”
Sometimes anxious people just need the world to stop for a moment, but it can leave them feeling guilty for checking out. Help them know they don’t need to feel bad about taking care of themselves.
Featured photo credit: 13 Cards Your Anxious Friends Would Seriously Appreciate/Anna Borgess via ak-hdl.buzzfed.com
