Here is a super quick rundown of social anxiety…

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WHAT IS IT?
Social anxiety is a subcategory of anxiety which is triggered by social activities. People with this type of anxiety often avoid situations in which they are expected to interact with others. This originates from the fear of embarrassing oneself, being judged or feeling / looking awkward.

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HOW DOES IT FEEL?
When experiencing social anxiety, you have mild to severe feelings of stress, nervousness, uneasiness and being uncomfortable. Like every kind of anxiety, social anxiety also comes with many physical symptoms, some of which include: sweatiness, lightheaded need, heartbeat quickening, feelings of being out of breath or suffocation and nausea. In many cases, some symptoms may trigger others.

 

WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?
Social anxiety is usually formed by the factors of genetics of past traumas and negative experiences. It can also be created through chemical imbalances with typically improper amounts of serotonin or dopamine in the brain.

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WHEN DOES IT HAPPEN?
Social anxiety occurs in environments which consist of groups of other people. Some typical examples are social gatherings, public speaking and school / work. Having to do normal actions and activities in front of others such as eating, talking or laughing can also trigger this anxiety.

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WHAT IMPACT DOES IT HAVE?
This type of anxiety has various effects on various people. However, it usually causes depression, lack of self - confidence or self - esteem, an increase in sensitivity of emotions and a decrease in sociability.

 

Now that you know what social anxiety consists of… 

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HOW DO YOU MANAGE SOCIAL ANXIETY?

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If you are in the middle of a social anxiety episode…

• Use The 5 Senses Rule

• Acknowledge Your Thoughts

• Deconstruct The Cause Of Your Episode

• Practice Deep Breathing

• Listen To Music

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Some ways to minimize social anxiety long term include…

• Become Aware Of Triggers

• Exposure Therapy

• Find An Outlet To Vent

• Prescribed Medications