How to Coach Yourself and Others Essential Knowledge For Coaching | Page 143

How to Deal With a Neurotic Person
1. Be tolerant and patient. Remember that the neurotic
behavior is most likely a coping mechanism that the person
uses to deal with a much larger issue. Being impatient with a
neurotic person will only cause strife and make the situation
worse.
2. Don't be overly critical. In many cases, a neurotic person
knows when she is being neurotic but is unable to change her
behavior. Many neurotic people are extremely self-critical
already, so you don't need to be.
3. Give him space. If you find yourself in an argument with a
neurotic person, it is futile to argue with him in the heat of
the moment. In many cases, the argument stems from a
larger issue about which you may know nothing. Wait until
he has calmed down before approaching him about the
situation. Discuss the issue in a calm tone, using language
that is not offensive. For example, avoid calling him names or
pointing out his personal flaws that lead to the conflict.
Instead, seek to find a compromise that will satisfy both
parties.
4. Encourage her to seek help. Many people with neurotic
personalities don't seek help because of embarrassment,
pride, fear or the belief that no one will understand or be able
to help. This could not be further from the truth. Help exists
for those who seek it. Psychotherapy is the form of treatment
used to help people overcome neurosis. Therapists
encourage patients to discuss the situation that brings on
neurotic behavior. With therapy, she can find the source of
her problem and develop strategies to help her cope.

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