Social anxiety is a debilitating condition that can negatively impact your life in many ways. Contrary to popular belief, social anxiety is not as simple as the fear of getting up in front of a crowd. In such situations, being apprehensive about getting all eyes on you is normal.
If you have social anxiety, your fears extend to everyday experiences like going out in public or meeting people. It's an ever-present fear of being humiliated and embarrassed. This anxiety can affect your relationships and lead to extreme loneliness, depression and other mental health struggles.
If you exhibit the following symptoms, seeking counseling for social anxiety may be a good idea.
Physical Symptoms
Many people think that social anxiety is all internal. However, those fears can manifest themselves in many ways.
One of the most common physical symptoms is an increased heartbeat. You may feel your heart rate suddenly rise. That may result in profuse sweating, dizziness, trembling and more.
Some people also experience flushed skin. You might turn red around other people or get so worked up that you must get away and calm down. In extreme cases, anxieties can turn into physical discomfort. Some individuals feel sick to their stomach or get diarrhea.
Communication Issues
Social anxiety also makes it difficult to communicate. Even in a one-on-one setting, you might find yourself stammering over your words. You could have trouble forming coherent sentences or freeze up entirely when trying to speak.
Low Self-Esteem
One way counseling for social anxiety helps people is by overcoming low self-esteem and self-conscious thinking. The biggest hurdle to overcome is not feeling like everyone is staring at you or laughing at your every move. If you feel anxious in a crowd, it could mean that you have self-esteem issues to overcome.
Post-Interaction Struggles
Anxiety doesn't stop after you get away from other people. Those who struggle with social anxiety often replay interactions in their mind. Simple conversations replay in a loop, and you may review those moments in a self-deprecating way.
If you have any of these symptoms, consider going to a therapist. Professional counselors can help you learn to cope in social situations, paving the way to healthier interactions and relationships.
Read a similar article about disabilities counseling here at this page.
