Social Anxiety is quickly becoming more and more widespread throughout the world. One of the biggest reasons I believe is the COVID Pandemic. As the world has started rolling out the carpets again, it is painfully clear that we aren’t as comfortable in our own skin. There is hope though, we just have to learn how to recognize the signs and get medical help when we need it.
(This is by no means a clinical advice post. Dial 911 or contact the nearest medical professionals in case of emergency)
We were closed up for almost two years and had no idea what to expect. Now we are being released back into the wild in social situations and many seem to be falling flat on knowing how to interact with one another. Yes, the recent generations were already struggling with it as it was, but now many of the older peeps are suffering as well.
Let’s take a look at some signs and some things we may be able to do to make things a bit easier.
Some Signs
- we find it difficult trying to do things when others are watching as if we were being judged.
- we often feel as if our heart is beating out of our chests while in public.
- we may have a sense of great fear and anxiety that may last for a while.
- we may constantly worry about being embarrassed or whether or not we appear competent.
- we may start worrying a lot about social situations, so much so that we may start avoiding them.
Some things we can do:
- Self-help- we are our own best advocates so let’s get started.
- Try to learn more about your anxiety by creating a journal of experiences. Writing things down when you start feeling a certain way could go a long way to help you through anxious times or even overcome them all together. Make note of anything that you can recall during these times in an effort to make you more aware.
- Try to adopt some relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation. Or all of the above!
- Start developing your own coping skills. This is a tricky one because we need to be in the present moment. Many of us suffering some type of anxiety seem to be off in our own worlds making up stories about ourselves that may not even be remotely true. Get out of your head and get in the game!
- Do a breakdown of situations that may be challenging. For example, going to a big conference in a new city. Take one step at a time. “First, I need to conquer hailing a cab. Get in the cab. Then I need to conquer a fear of the subway with all those weirdos. Conquer that. Then I need to conquer coming into a big building full of judgment. Conquer that!” Baby steps and slowly facing your fears and exposing yourself to each situation it will make it less crazy.
Do know that just because you feel anxious in social situations doesn’t mean there is anything medically wrong with you. Some of us are just predisposed to being shy. Ain’t nothing wrong with that.
Conclusion
Being nervous in social situations is ok we all go through stuff but if it is taking over your world and making it difficult to function, you may want to work on helping yourself through it. Help yourself or get help from the pros if you need it. You got this!
Question
When were you last anxious in a social setting and what did you do about it?
