Many people who are perceived as being shy may actually be experiencing social anxiety disorder (SAD). The way to address each of these aren’t the same, so it is important to understand the differences between them. If you think you may be dealing with social anxiety, an anxiety treatment program at 5 Palms can help you learn how to overcome the nagging worries about being judged by others so you can start enjoying rather than avoiding social situations.
Shyness vs. Anxiety: Not Quite the Same
Although they might sound similar, there are some differences between someone who is just a bit shy and someone who has a full-blown social anxiety disorder (SAD). The primary distinguishing factors between shyness vs. anxiety are:
Intensity
Shyness tends to be a milder feeling, while social anxiety can be fairly intense for some.
Duration
Shyness may come and go, while social anxiety is a continual challenge. Children who are shy are sometimes known to “grow out of it,” but social anxiety is a chronic condition. It does not go away, although it can be managed.
Type of Situation
Lots of people feel shy in certain situations. On the other hand, those with social anxiety often feel their symptoms in most, if not all, social settings.
Do You Have Social Anxiety?
Some common signs of social anxiety include experiencing the following in social situations:
- Feeling very nervous
- Constantly worrying about embarrassing yourself
- Always feeling like others are judging you
- Not knowing what to say, as though your mind has gone blank
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sweating
- Difficulty making eye contact
- Shaking
Symptoms of social anxiety can be so severe that a person may try to avoid social settings altogether. Unfortunately, this can minimize the experiences you have in your life, so it is important to learn how to manage your symptoms.
Tips for Overcoming Social Anxiety
Although social anxiety is a chronic condition, that does not mean that you are stuck feeling paralyzing fear and anxiety whenever entering a social situation. Here are some tips for overcoming social anxiety so you can get more joy out of life:
Work with a Therapist
Therapy sessions can be immensely helpful for those with social anxiety. Your therapist can help you confront distorted perceptions of being judged and criticized by others and reframe thoughts about whether people actually scrutinize what you do and think negatively about you.
Explore Exposure Therapy
A therapist can also help you try exposure therapy to overcome social anxiety. This technique involves creating a list of social situations that trigger fear and anxiety. You then put the list in order of difficulty, from least to most intense. From there, you begin with the least anxiety-inducing situation. Your therapist can help you prepare for each situation and gradually work your way up your list.
Try Breathing Exercises Before Entering a Social Setting
Before heading into a social situation that provokes anxiety, like a party or job interview, you can do breathing exercises to help calm your mind and body. One great breathing exercise is known as the 4-7-8 method. You simply inhale for a count of four, hold for a count of seven, and exhale for a count of eight. Repeat this several times until you start to feel more relaxed.
Plan Some Talking Points Ahead of Time
Before making a phone call, walking into a meeting, or entering a social gathering, you can come up with some topics to talk about. This can help reduce the awkwardness that occurs when your mind goes blank. You can even take some notes on your phone that you can discreetly refer to if you experience any brain fog moments.
Reach Out to 5 Palms for Anxiety Treatment Today
You no longer need to let social anxiety make your world feel smaller. Get the support you need to overcome social anxiety and enjoy life more by contacting Promises My 5 Palms at 1.844.675.1022 or filling out our online form today.