Coping With Relationship Anxiety

Anxious attachment can make relationships feel intense and emotionally overwhelming. People with this attachment style often crave closeness in their relationships and if this is not reciprocated, they are likely to feel abandonment, which can lead to further ‘clinginess’ and heightened sensitivity to rejection. The good news is that secure, healthy relationships are possible with awareness, self-regulation and supportive partnership dynamics.

Building security starts with self-awareness. Recognising your triggers and attachment patterns allows you to respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively. Open communication is key: sharing needs and fears honestly while listening to your partner fosters mutual understanding. Learning self-soothing strategies like grounding exercises, mindful breathing and journaling can help you regulate emotions during moments of anxiety.

Setting and respecting healthy boundaries is another essential element. Boundaries create safety and prevent enmeshment, giving both partners space while maintaining closeness. Over time, consistent experiences of trust, reliability and attuned responsiveness can retrain the nervous system, helping anxious individuals feel safer in relationships.

Working with a psychotherapist trained in attachment-focused approaches can support this process, offering guidance, insight, and practical strategies. With time and intentional effort, people with anxious attachment can cultivate secure, fulfilling and resilient relationships.