Social anxiety disorder is characterised by being overwhelmed by social situations. That are there for a long period of time. Many individuals encounter challenges while in social scenarios. Occasionally feeling shy or awkward, and it is important to understand that these feelings are completely normal.
It is a very common problem, that usually starts during teenage years, and the reason for this is because they are exploring where they fit in. and for most teenagers, it can be very distressing and impactful. For some, it gets better with age however, for many others it stays until it is treated. If you are having symptoms of social phobia, then seeking help is crucial. There are many therapists available that can help manage and assist social phobia.
Tasks that affect those with social phobia (social anxiety)
Living with social phobia can be an incredibly challenging and overwhelming experience. Because social phobia is characterised by an intense fear of social situations, it makes everyday activities and interactions difficult to cope with.
doing these everyday tasks may be difficult to those with social phobia:
- Group settings
- talking on the phone
- public speaking
- introducing themselves
- starting the workday
- Beginning conversations
- socialising over food and drink
- speaking to people like a teacher or doctor
What are the physical effects of social anxiety:
It is Important to realise that not everyone will experience all of these, however, these are the common symptoms of social phobia:
- blushing: blushing is a common symptom of social phobia, the reason for blushing may be because you feel embarrassed or self-conscious.
- Sweating: excessive sweating on your forehead, palms, and underarms is a very common physical symptoms of social phobia.
- Shaking: people with social phobia may experience shacking or trembling especially in the hands or voice.
- Rapid Heartbeat: having an increased heartrate during social situations is common because this Is when you are most anxious.
- Upset Stomach: having an upset stomach, digestive problems, or being nauseous can arise if you’re anxious.
- Muscles tensing: this is another common symptom of social phobia, your muscles may start to tense up if your anxious, this can cause you pains or discomfort.
- Shortness of Breath: your breathing may start to shorten because your heartrate goes up.
- Struggling to speak: if you have social anxiety, it can become difficult for you to speak, or speak without your voice cracking or becoming Shakey.
- fidgeting: people with social anxiety may struggle sitting still. Your legs may shake, or you may play with objects trying to release their nerves.
- Feeling dizzy: as your heartrate goes up, due to being anxious, it is normal to feel dizzy because our breath shortens.
These physical reactions of social anxiety are extremely common because of our bodies natural fight or flight response. The reason you’re experiencing these physical symptoms is because the body prepares for threat, and this leads to these reactions.
When to get help for social phobia (social anxiety)
When social anxiety begins to exert a significant impact on your daily life, impeding your ability to engage in social situations at school, work, or even with friends and family, it is crucial to take proactive steps to address it. Seeking professional assistance becomes not just advisable but a must for your well-being. Having a conversation with your GP about how you’re feeling is the first essential stride towards subsiding social phobia.
During the appointment with Your GP, they will encourage you to describe how you feel while being faced with social situations. It is advisable that before your appointment, you write down your symptoms/ the signs that are there and let your GP know, that way they can understand your specific experience. If your GP suspects that you may be dealing with social phobia, they will take the next vital step by referring you to a mental health specialist. This referral ensures that you receive a thorough assessment by a qualified expert in the field of mental health. This is for a clearer assessment and diagnosis.
Once your assessment is over, the specialist your GP refers you to will discuss potential treatment options with you.