Tackling Anxiety in Relationships: Insights from Therapist Leslie Gustafson
So the person, the non-anxious person, if you will, can be empathetic and supportive and be a cheerleader, I think, as opposed to being an enabler or not an enabler.
Feeling like anxiety is throwing a wrench into your intimate relationships? You're not alone. In this episode of 'The Anxious Truth', Drew Linsalata teams up with Leslie Gustafson, a certified sex therapist and licensed therapist, to explore the tricky intersection of anxiety, sex, and intimacy. Leslie shares her professional insights on how anxiety can manifest in relationships, often causing misunderstandings and distance between partners.
She points out that physiological responses like a racing heart or heavy breathing can mimic anxiety symptoms, leading to a cycle of avoidance and fear around intimacy. But don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom. Leslie and Drew dive into the benefits of action-oriented behavioral therapies, which can help break this cycle by gradually reintroducing intimacy in a non-threatening way.
They emphasize the importance of empathy and support from partners, suggesting that being a 'cheerleader' rather than an enabler can make a huge difference. The episode wraps up with a strong message: stay in the fight and seek the help you need. With the right strategies and support, you can overcome these challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.