Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense and persistent fear of being judged and criticized by others.
Social and performance situations can trigger intense feelings of anxiety and discomfort, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, excessive sweating, tremors, and difficulty breathing.
Social anxiety goes beyond ordinary shyness. It can significantly interfere with daily life, preventing the person from participating in social activities, impairing academic or professional performance, restricting the development of healthy relationships.
However, there are several effective strategies for dealing with social anxiety:
Psychotherapy: Helps identify and challenge negative thoughts and self-defeating behaviors. Help manage and reduce anxiety in social situations.
Graduated exposure: This technique involves gradually facing and participating in social situations, starting with less threatening situations and progressing to more challenging situations.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing and yoga can help relieve stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to reducing symptoms of social anxiety. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption.
Social support: Having a trusted circle of support, whether it be family, friends, support groups, can be extremely beneficial. Sharing your feelings and experiences with others who understand what you are going through can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation.
Remember, it is perfectly normal and acceptable to seek professional help if you are having social difficulties. Ask for psychological help, book your clinical psychology appointment.