Social Anxiety / Fear of Public Interaction Consultation
Social Anxiety / Fear of Public Interaction
Among several disorders falling under the heading anxiety in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, social anxiety is quite widespread. In USA alone, 7.1 % of adults are going through a difficult phase because of social anxiety. Feelings of fear, worry about something worse happening when in a social situation are often seen in the age group of 11-25 years of age. What others consider normal becomes a deadly take for a person with social anxiety like starting a small talk. Before they could even speak, overwhelming thoughts encircle and entangle the mind of an individual with the disorder.
Social anxiety takes a toll on people whether they are a home maker or a working professional
The most difficult part is asking for help. It can include symptoms like that of general anxiety disorders but specifically in social situations.
For treatment, various mental health professionals use psychotherapy and certain relaxing techniques.
Some measures for managing social anxiety symptoms are –
1. Practicing yoga,
2. Listen to music
3. Meditate
4. Get a massage
5. Learn relaxation techniques
6. Learning assertiveness
7. Realize anxiety is natural
8. Shift your focus
9. Try to practise realistic thinking
10. Talk to a counsellor