5 Ways To Handle Anxiety About Getting Married

You’re about to walk down the aisle; nothing could be more exciting! Wedding planning is fun, you’re marrying your best friend, and there’s so much to look forward to about your special day. 

But, no matter how excited and happy you are, you might also be fighting back against anxiety. 

It’s understandable and normal to experience “cold feet” before a wedding. But what if those anxious thoughts creep up weeks or months before your big day? How can you handle anxiety about getting married and enjoy the wedding planning process — and the wedding itself? 

1. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a great tool for anxiety of any kind. Anxiety is often fueled by the unknown. Unfortunately, there can be a lot of “what if” situations when you’re getting married that can make your worry start to take over everything. 

You can combat those thoughts and feelings by being more mindful. 

Mindfulness is the practice of staying in the present. Close your eyes and focus on slow, deep breaths. Take in how your body feels at that very moment, and let anxious thoughts pass you by like clouds you can’t hold onto.

2. Get To The Root

Your anxiety stems from somewhere. Ask yourself what you’re worried about. Where is your fear coming from, and why? The answer might be a difficult thing to work through, but it’s the best way to fight back against the symptoms of anxiety. 

Maybe you’re anxious about moving in together for the first time. Maybe you’re worried about the wedding day and everything going smoothly. Or, maybe you’re just nervous about the unknowns that are ahead in your marriage. Understanding the root of your anxiety will make it easier to stay calm. 

3. Get Your Feelings Out

One of the worst things you can do if you’re feeling anxious about getting married is to keep your feelings bottled up. They are valid, and you deserve to have someone understand them. 

Talk to your partner about your anxiety and let them help you work through it. They might be dealing with similar struggles, and being able to support and help each other will start your marriage off on the right foot. 

You can also talk to trusted family members or friends about your feelings. Lean on your support system, and don’t be ashamed of your worries. 

4. Practice Self-Care

Self-care is important no matter what. But, when you’re getting ready to commit to marriage, it’s essential. It’s easy to ignore the basics of taking care of yourself when you’re planning a wedding and a life with the person you love. 

But ignoring your needs can make your anxiety worse. 

Prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy diet. Make sure you’re taking the time to do at least one thing to promote your well-being every day. 

5. Work With A Therapist

If you find that you can’t manage your anxiety about getting married on your own, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. 

Therapy is a great way to better understand the root of your anxiety. If you’re having trouble accomplishing that yourself, let a professional be your guide. Your therapist will also help you create a strategy to manage your symptoms and eventually overcome your anxiety so you can walk down the aisle without fear.

Anxiety about marriage doesn’t have to spell gloom and doom for your wedding day and beyond. It doesn’t mean you’re making the wrong decision. Be proactive about handling your anxiety and moving forward, and don’t feel like you have to do it on your own. Contact me today for more information or a consultation for anxiety therapy.