Reply to DW Mental Issues - How to address?

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]My DW is a complete stress case and always has been.  It doesn't matter if it something serious like a health issue or something completely minor like a kid bringing home a poor grade.  I want her to see someone to potentially get on some anti-anxiety medication.  Her anxiety has always been below the surface in our home, but lately its getting a lot worse.  Some changes in her job situation is not making it any better.  Her mother and sister have both been hospitalized at different times for mental issues, and she is extremely sensitive about that and the entire topic.  I suggested a long time ago she see a counselor, and just got an icy response.  I have come to believe she has the beginnings of a real mental illness, but I don't know how to begin to address it with her.  Any thoughts?  Similar circumstances?
 [/quote]

It sounds like generalized anxiety disorder. Sometimes people with anxiety don't want to seek help or meds because of control issues. When anxiety gets out of control, it's difficult to differentiate between major or minor issues because the anxiety becomes a physical reaction. In other words she is not reacting rationally because her brain is sending signals to her body that heighten stress. It's what happens when anxiety is not dealt with in early stages. The most extreme manifestation can be panic attacks-- but anger, hysteria, irritability, etc. are common with generalized anxiety disorder.

Insomnia, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, etc. contribute to anxiety but are also the result of anxiety/depression creating a vicious cycle.

Your wife would benefit from both anti anxiety medication and therapy. You need to be firm with your DW- explain that her anxiety is disruptive and counterproductive to your home life and relationship. At the same time, let her know that you love her and support her with getting the help she needs. She has to take responsibility for her condition but also feel secure, loved, and supported by you.

Anxiety is probably the most common mental health condition. It affects many people and is hellish for the person suffering from it and very difficult for their family members. Fortunately it highly treatable. [/quote]

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