It Can Be Lonely, Everyday Social Anxiety.
Do you ever feel scared around people? Does talking to others make you feel worried and filled with panic? That’s just a small glimpse into what social anxiety feels like. It’s more than being shy. It’s a devastating fear of people judging you. In this article, we’ll talk about social anxiety, how it starts, how it affects your day, how to know if you have it, and what you can do.
What is Social Anxiety?
Social anxiety is like having a big spotlight on you all the time. You’re scared that everyone is judging your every move. It makes talking to people and being in groups hard and scary. In some cases, it can affect how you deal with your family and friends. Some people even have difficulty walking in front of a bistro’s terrace without this feeling striking them down.
How Does it Start?
Social anxiety usually starts when you’re young, but it can happen at any age. It might begin with something embarrassing happening to you in front of others. The fear of humiliation can have many beginnings, and then you worry it will happen again. Over time, this worry gets bigger and affects other parts of your life. Sometimes, you feel like you’re not good enough, bringing you an emptiness within that seems never to be filled. Truth is, when you are a child, being mocked can be perceived as not being loved, and if you are not loved you will not be taken care of. Ultimately in the child’s head, it turns into a life-or-death situation.
How It Affects Us Daily:
Social anxiety makes everyday things seem difficult. Going to school, work, or just going out can be scary. You might always worry about doing or saying something that makes others laugh at you. Sometimes, you might even decide not to go out because you’re so scared. You get distracted at work or school. It can become a downward spiral that crushes from the inside without being noticed.
How to Spot It:
Finding social anxiety can be tricky. If you feel nervous around people, avoid talking to them, or your body feels weird when you’re around others, you might have social anxiety. Or, you might just be shy. How to make sure? If it has been going on for over six months, it may be time to seek help.
What to Do About It:
Getting rid of social anxiety takes time, but you can do it! Start by doing small things that scare you a little, like saying hi to someone new or joining a club. It’s also helpful to do things that calm you, like taking slow breaths or thinking positively. And don’t forget to talk to someone who can help, like a doctor or a counselor. They can give you ideas and support to feel better.
Remember, you’re not alone in dealing with social anxiety. You can start feeling more relaxed by taking small steps and asking for help. Like finding a hidden treasure in a dark cave, facing your fears might lead you to a happier and more confident life while enjoying it more.
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