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Living with Social Anxiety: Practical Advice for Everyday Life
Keeva Galway
Aug 5th, 2024
As we welcome August, it's a perfect time to shed light on an issue that touches many lives - social anxiety. Whether you're experiencing it yourself or supporting a loved one who is, understanding social anxiety can pave the way to better mental health and improved relationships.
Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, is a persistent fear of being judged, negatively evaluated, or rejected in social or performance situations. It can manifest as intense nervousness, fear, self-consciousness, and embarrassment in everyday interactions. Unlike the typical anxiety we all experience in response to new, stressful, or threatening situations - where our body’s ‘fight, flight, or freeze’ response kicks in - social anxiety is disproportionate to the situation at hand or occurs without any apparent trigger. This can have a profound impact on one's daily life and overall health. This condition affects millions of people worldwide, making it one of the most common mental health issues.
Social anxiety can be triggered by various situations, including:
Social anxiety can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. It can interfere with daily activities, academic performance, job functioning, and personal relationships. Individuals with social anxiety might avoid social situations, leading to isolation and loneliness. It can also cause physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, nausea, and a rapid heart rate.
Anxiety can be experienced through our thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. When anxiety is a mental health problem, it is typically accompanied by:
While social anxiety can be challenging, there are effective strategies to manage and reduce its impact:
If you know someone struggling with social anxiety, your support can make a significant difference. Here are some ways to help:
Workplace anxiety refers to worries and fears about events and interactions that occur at work. For example, concerns about job performance, financial well-being, or social interactions at work. There are practical steps that can be taken to support colleagues experiencing anxiety.
Spot the Signs and Symptoms: Whether an employee’s anxiety is work-related or not, there are signs to look out for:
Social anxiety is a real and challenging condition, but with the right strategies and support, it is manageable. This August, let's spread awareness, foster understanding, and offer support to those dealing with social anxiety. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic community where everyone feels confident and valued.
For more resources and support, visit our Wellness Centre or book a call with one of our Responders who are ready to assist you on your journey.
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