Almost everyone is familiar with the term anxiety. But are you acquainted with the concept of Social Anxiety Disorder?
The meaning of “Social anxiety disorder,” or SAD, refers to a person’s dread of being in social settings. They avoid interacting with people because they feel that they will be criticised by others.
Studies have shown that, millions of people experience social anxiety every year. Besides, the circumstance has gotten worse due to an enormous impact of COVID-19.
What are the symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder?
- Avoiding Social Events :
You may find it challenging to deal with new people . You think that conversing with them will put an immense amount of burden on you. Thus , you refuse to participate in any social programmes.
- Fear of Public Speaking :
Speaking in front of an audience is now regarded as an interpersonal skill.Few people sound eloquent when presenting in front of a room full of people.
People who are dealing with SAD stay away from such circumstances. In addition, some people have impeccable writing skills but struggle with public speaking.
If you witness the same symptom , you may also have SAD.
- Have Low Self- Esteem :
You find yourself uneasy when surrounded by other people. You face the societal pressure, leading you to believe that , people are staring at you closely. As a consequence, you start to doubt yourself and become frantic from the intense peer pressure.
- Fail to make any eye- contact :
Maintaining eye contact throughout an interaction conveys your level of confidence. However, SAD sufferers avoid making eye contact. They experience hands trembling. sweating, and an elevated heart rate when they engage in eye-to-eye communication.
Isolation :-
- Physical Symptoms of Social Anxiety :
People of Social Anxiety Disorder suffer from breathing problems, dizziness, blushing , headache, panic attack , restlessness , insomnia, tiredness and many more.
What are the causes of Social Anxiety Disorder?
- Environment plays a crucial role while rearing children. A child who experiences constant criticism as an infant will grow up to believe he is despicable. As a result, he will feel anxious amongst strangers.
- SAD may result from trauma, abuse, or other unpleasant experiences.
- Genetics can contribute to SAD a greater possibility.
- A possible explanation is abnormalities in the brain structures that regulate the thought process of fear and anxiety.
- Social anxiety can depend on either parental dominance or strict rules and regulations.
How to overcome Social Anxiety Disorder?
The mental illness known as social anxiety cannot be cured with medication. You have to seek a specialised therapy in order to successfully deal with this disorder.
Taking Challenges :
The most difficult thing is embracing new changes. It’s essential to acclimatise to an unfamiliar social setting. You need to step aside from your comfort zone.
Focus on small things :
You may accomplish your goals by taking small actions. Go outside and stop worrying about what other people may think of you. Take part in an informal conversation with the neighbour who lives next door.
Seek a professional help :
Seek assistance from a therapist or counsellor if you feel that you are struggling to improve yourself. They will assist you to cope up with new social environments.
Taking part in any social event:
Participating in any social organisation will enable you progressively get over your insecurity. Start attending in any singing, dance, or sketching classes, if at all possible.
Remember that, shyness and SAD are similar it is a misconception While shyness can be dealt with, SAD requires specialised therapy.
Try to comfort any person who is suffering from social anxiety disorder by striking up a casual discussion with them.
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Writer
Poushee Swarna Barua
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE