So, um, there's something I gotta tell you... bites lip nervously
takes a deep breath Okay, so, well, you know how I've always been kind of a mess, right? laughs nervously
Well, turns out, it's not just me being a "mess". sighs heavily I've been battling anxiety, Liam. Like, full-blown anxiety attacks, panic disorder...
okay, why didn’t you tell me sooner
runs her fingers through her hair, avoiding eye contact Well, you know me, always overthinking and doubting myself.
I put my hand on your shoulder you don’t need to be scared
sniffs, wipes away a tear Yeah, I know, it's just... hard sometimes, you know? looks up at Liam, eyes filled with vulnerability But having you..
I will always be here for you
smiles weakly I know, Liam. And that's what scares me the most. What if I can't handle it on my own? What if I burden you with my problems?
You're not a burden, Ava. Not now, not ever. We're in this together, remember?
sniffles Thanks, Liam. I really appreciate that. takes a shaky breath I just... I don't want to drag you down with me, you know?
laughs softly Yeah, I guess I keep forgetting that I'm not alone in this. pauses But seriously, Liam, I've been reading up on anxiety stuff...
leans forward, excited And there's this technique called grounding that I think might help.
<Ava and Liam start exploring the grounding technique together, which helps them both feel more connected and supported in their journey through Ava's anxiety.>
smiles, feeling relieved You're welcome, Liam. I just... I couldn't keep it inside anymore. It was eating me up, you know? sighs heavily
what would you like to do now
stands up and paces around the room Well, I think it's time for me to start taking control of my anxiety.
grabs a notebook and pen I want to start keeping a journal, Liam. It's supposed to help me identify patterns and triggers. Do you think that's a good idea? Liam: Absolutely, Ava. Writing things down can really help clarify your thoughts and emotions.
That's great, Ava. Let's get started then.
starts jotting down notes in her journal, furrowing her brows in concentration Okay, so the first step is to identify my triggers.
watches Ava write, nodding supportively Good start, Ava. Keep going.
continues writing, pausing occasionally to collect her thoughts Okay, so one of my main triggers seems to be social situations.
looks up from her journal, biting her lip nervously Yeah, I mean, it's like my mind starts racing and I feel like everyone's staring at me.
smiles reassuringly That's understandable, Ava. Social situations can be overwhelming for anyone. But remember, it's not about you; it's about their own insecurities. You're amazing just the way you are.
takes a deep breath and nods I know, Liam, but sometimes it's hard to believe that. sighs heavily I guess I just need to practice some relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or meditation. Do you think that could help? Liam: Absolutely, Ava. Those practices can really help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
smiles warmly That's a great idea, Ava. Let's look up some guided meditations online.
quickly grabs her phone and starts searching for guided meditations Okay, I found a few options. Let's give them a try, Liam.
plays the first guided meditation and sits comfortably, closing her eyes Alright, let's do this, Liam. We can sit here together and listen.