Social anxiety disorder is a long-term mental illness in which the person has fear of moving into social circles. Also known as social phobia, this condition mostly starts in the teenage years. It may persist for a longer period of time if left untreated. It may fade away when the person becomes older but in worse situations, this condition may take a toll on a person’s life. Social gatherings play a huge role in shaping the personality of a person. Chit-chatting with your close family and friends leaves a huge impact on the behavioral changes in a person.
If a person faces difficulty in communicating with friends, class fellows, or even strangers, then he is labeled as a social outcast. Difficulty in communication may lead to anxiety and depression.
Symptoms
Fear of moving into social gatherings may affect the relationships and self-confidence of a person. A person with social anxiety has a permanent fear before going to a social event or afterward. You may feel social anxiety if you:
- Fear of being criticized
- Fear of doing something embarrassing
- Feel worried about everyday activities
- Feel pressurized due to peer pressure
- Start sweating before going to an event
- Feel pounding heartbeat
All these signs may lead to adverse changes in social behavior.
Diagnosis
If you think that social anxiety is taking your relationships with friends and family then it is better to consult with your GP. Some people shy away to book an appointment with their GP regarding any mental disorder but try to trust your doctor regarding your anxiety. He might be able to help you out in conditioning your thoughts. The doctor may ask about your feelings and symptoms. Be honest and tell your heart out. It is better to discuss your social anxiety symptoms with a close confidante. Be it your parents, siblings, or friends, you may find solace in discussing this matter with your loved ones first.
Treatment
The best way to overcome social anxiety is self-help. You can help yourself in getting over it by simply making small changes in your lifestyle:
- Jot down your thoughts in a journal. Journaling gives a deep insight into your thoughts and helps make them better
- Breathing exercises are excellent in treating palpitations. Whenever you feel your heart pounding, try some relaxing breathing exercises to feel better
- Focus on the positive aspects of what people are saying. Try to avoid judging others and making false assumptions about them. Focus on what they’re actually trying to say
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy – this therapy can do wonders for you. A few sessions with a psychiatrist may help clear out your fears
Medications
Even after all the self-help measures, if your social anxiety persists then it is better to consult with a clinical psychologist. The therapist may prescribe you some anti-depressants based on your proper diagnosis. You can get discount prescription drugs from an online Canadian pharmacy called PricePro pharmacy which specializes in selling affordable medicines at your doorsteps. Remember! Medications must always be the last resort to treat this condition.
