Understanding Social Anxiety

Social Anxiety

Social Anxiety differs from the normal “butterflies” you feel when going on a date or giving a speech because it is a chronic significant anxiety associated with everyday interactions. A big stem of this is a fear of being scrutinized or judged negatively by others. Social anxiety often starts around the mid-teens age group.

This anxiety can lead to disruptive avoidance in life and can affect relationships, daily routines, work, and school.

Medications and learning coping skills in psychotherapy can help gain confidence and improve interactions.

The following are symptoms of social anxiety. It is important to remember that feelings of shyness or discomfort in certain situations are not always abnormal or symptoms of social anxiety but merely apart of a more reserved personality.

Constant Emotional or Behavioral Symptoms of Social Anxiety:

1. Fear of situations in which you may be judged negatively

2. Worry about embarrassing or humiliating yourself

3. Intense fear of interacting or talking with strangers

4. Fear that others will notice that you look anxious

5. Fear of physical symptoms that may cauuse you embarrassment, such as blushing, sweating, trembling or having a shaky voice

6. Avoidance of situations where you will be the center of attention

7. Analysis of your performance and identification of flaws in your interactions after a social situation

8. Expectation of the worst possible consequences from a negative experience during a social situation

Physical Symptoms of Social Anxiety:

1. Blushing

2. Fast heartbeat

3. Trembling

4. Sweating

5. Upset stomach or nausea

6. Trouble catching your breath

7. Dizziness or lightheartedness

8. Feeling that your mind has gone blank

9. Muscle tension

Common Causes:

1. Inherited Traits

2. Brain Structure

3. Environment (learned behavior)

Risk Factors:

1. Family History

2. Negative Experiences

3. Temperament

4. New Social or Work Demands

5. Having an appearance or condition that draws attention

Prevention:

1. Get help early (the earlier you catch it, the easier it is to treat)

2. Keep a journal (this can help you and your mental health professional identify points of stress and relievers)

3. Set priorities in your life (reduce stress by carefully managing your time and energy)

4. Avoid unhealthy substance abuse