Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a mental health condition characterized by intense fears and worries about being in public situations where others might judge you. You may have social anxiety if the idea of going to a party or presenting to a group sounds like a punishment instead of something to look forward to.
How Does Social Anxiety Impact You?
Social anxiety disorder goes beyond being shy or introverted. It can be so overwhelming that it interferes with your daily activities, work performance, and relationships. Women with social anxiety might struggle with perceived inadequacies in their personal or professional lives.
People with social anxiety typically experience a range of psychological and physical symptoms in social settings.
- Worrying excessively about what other people think of you.
- Finding excuses to avoid going to parties or work events.
- Blushing, sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, and nausea when faced with a social situation.
- Speaking very softly, mumbling, having trouble maintaining eye contact, or having a shaky voice in conversations.
- Inordinate worry about your appearance and behavior or the dread of behaving in a way that might cause embarrassment.
The Link Between Social Anxiety and Other Mental Health Issues
Social anxiety often links to several other mental and behavioral issues.
- Depression: Social isolation and persistent anxiety can lead to depression.
- Substance use disorders: Women with social anxiety may turn to alcohol or drugs to relieve their symptoms before social interactions or cope with the aftermath of anxiety-inducing events.
- Other anxiety disorders: Social anxiety frequently co-occurs with other forms of anxiety, such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder.
Getting Help for Social Anxiety
Effective social anxiety treatments can significantly improve your quality of life.
- Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy is an evidence-based treatment that helps you learn to recognize, challenge, and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Medication: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs to ease your symptoms.
- Support groups: Joining a group where you can share your experiences and tips with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly beneficial.
- Self-help strategies: Try techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises when you feel overwhelmed with anxiety.
Rediscover Your Joy
Social anxiety is a treatable condition. Though it can be frustrating, it doesn’t have to define your life, and needing help to manage it should never be a source of shame.
At The Pearl, we understand that addiction often serves as a coping mechanism for anxiety and other mood disorders, and we provide intensive individual and group therapy to help women address these challenges. We counteract the isolation and guilt associated with co-occurring addiction and mental health issues in our supportive community, helping our clients build strength through sisterhood. Contact us today to start reclaiming your life.
