Hi, I think I have social anxiety but I'm not 100% sure, could you possibly tell me what the signs are of anxiety? And also how to deal with it? Thank you
Hey there!
Emotional and behavioral social anxiety disorder signs and symptoms include:
-Intense fear of interacting with strangers -Fear of situations in which you may be judged -Worrying about embarrassing or humiliating yourself -Fear that others will notice that you look anxious -Anxiety that disrupts your daily routine, work, school or other activities -Avoiding doing things or speaking to people out of fear of embarrassment -Avoiding situations where you might be the center of attention -Difficulty making eye contact -Difficulty talking
Physical social anxiety disorder signs and symptoms include:
-Blushing -Sweating -Trembling or shaking -Fast heartbeat -Upset stomach -Nausea -Shaky voice -Muscle tension -Confusion -Diarrhea -Cold, clammy hands
If you do have social anxiety, you could try learning to control your breath. Sit comfortably with your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. Then, put one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose for four seconds. The hand on your stomach should rise, while the hand on your chest should move very little.
Hold the breath for two seconds, then slowly through your mouth for six seconds, pushing out as much air as you can. The hand on your stomach should move in as you exhale, but your other hand should move very little. Continue to breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Focus on keeping a slow and steady breathing pattern of 4-in, 2-hold, and 6-out.
I also strongly suggest challenging your negative thoughts and facing your fears. Creating and maintaining relationships would also help you.
Everyone has different approaches they prefer when it comes to treatment. If self-help doesn’t work for you, you could always try cognitive-behavioral therapy. Or you could go to your doctor and get prescribed medication.
I hope this helps!
-K.S.B.