What Exactly Is Social Anxiety, Anyways?
Most people have at least heard of social anxiety. You probably have a basic understanding of what it is – a fear of social situations. However, labeling it so broadly doesn’t exactly cover the huge impact this type of anxiety has on its sufferers.
Social anxiety is so much more than a fear of social situations on a grand scale. You don’t have to be speaking in front of an audience of thousands to experience it.
Rather, it could be an intense fear about giving a presentation at work, or going to a get-together with friends. You could even experience it when you miss out on a social event and you find yourself worrying about what people might be saying “behind your back.”
Like most types of anxiety, it can impact everyone differently.
However, there are a few common symptoms of social anxiety that can help you identify if you’re struggling with it. The sooner you recognize the signs and how to accept them, the sooner you can reach out to get the help you deserve.
So, what is social anxiety, and what does it look like?
What Triggers Social Anxiety?
Social anxiety disorder can impact almost anyone. However, there are some people who may be more susceptible to it.
As a child, if you were bullied, teased, or rejected by others (including friends and/or family), you may be more prone to experiencing extreme worry in social situations. Things like familial abuse or even relationship abuse can also contribute to social anxiety.
Some people might not even know they’re dealing with the condition until they experience certain triggers. Again, those can be different for everyone. However, some of the most common include
Performances
Meeting new people
Making small talk
Dating
Having to state your opinion
Again, you don’t have to be in a room with dozens of people to experience this type of anxiety. Even the idea of having to meet one new person or socialize at a small gathering can be enough to trigger your symptoms.
Common Symptoms
So, what are those symptoms? They can affect you both physically and mentally. When you’re in the throes of social anxiety, you might start to feel nauseous. You might tremble, feel dizzy, or have difficulty speaking.
From an emotional standpoint, you’ll start to worry about being judged or embarrassed. You might even worry that something you say will offend someone.
These symptoms can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being, perpetuating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.
How to Combat Social Anxiety
It’s not always easy to admit that you’re struggling with social anxiety. It can leave you feeling like some kind of outcast, or wondering why you just can’t “fit in” in social situations.
However, it’s important to reach out for help if you’re experiencing any of the signs and symptoms listed here. Talking to a mental health professional is a great place to start.
By seeking out treatment for social anxiety, you’ll accomplish a few things.
First, your therapist will work with you to get to the “root cause” of your worry. That might require you to step back into situations that happened in childhood. While it’s not always pleasant, it’s necessary to understand where your worries stem from so you have a stronger way to fight back against them.
As you work through those underlying issues, you’ll learn techniques and skills to build your confidence and let go of your fears. Your therapist will work with you to improve your ability to connect with other people without falling victim to worry.
If the symptoms and triggers of social anxiety sound familiar, understand that you’re not alone. Feel free to contact us for more information or to set up an appointment. You don’t have to struggle with this fear forever.