Is Social Anxiety Preventing You From Meeting Others?
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At one time or another, we have all suffered with a bout stage fright or shyness. Generally once we learn these situations aren't as scary as they may seem, we overcome our fright. For people who suffer with social anxiety, however, their symptoms go beyond common stage fright. In fact, these patients may actually sequester themselves in their homes to avoid being in contact with the public. Luckily, this form of anxiety can be effectively treated.
Social anxiety, also called social phobia, is defined as the intense fear of scrutiny by other people in a social situation. Those suffering with social anxiety may also be afraid of doing something embarrassing or humiliating in public. The fear of public speaking is the most common social phobia, however, those afflicted with the disorder may also be fearful of going on a date, filling out a check in public, walking alone in front of a group of people or even having any interaction with people at all.
Those suffering with social phobia become flustered and embarrassed when they make common mistakes that others would be able to just brush off. Their body's natural response to this embarrassment, such as blushing, causes them to become even more self conscious. To avoid feeling this embarrassment, they will avoid public places such as shopping malls, movie theaters and even churches.
Social phobia should not be confused with extreme shyness. While shy people are often not comfortable talking with or giving a speech to others, they do not suffer with the all encompassing anxiety that comes along with social phobia. In fact, those suffering with social phobia may not be shy at all; they may be able to converse quite confidently with others in certain situations. It is only when they are faced with the situation that causes their phobia or fear that they become uncomfortable and anxious, and eventually withdraw.
One unique aspect of social phobia is that the sufferer realizes that his fears are unfounded. However, they are often unable to overcome their anxiety on their own. Without proper treatment, these people may retreat from all social interactions, eventually sequestering themselves in their homes.
Once diagnosed, however, those with social phobias respond well to treatment. Like other forms of anxiety, treatments may come in the form of therapy, medications or a combination of the two. Cognitive behavior therapy may be used to help retrain the mind to properly recognize which situations are threatening and which are not. This type of therapy may also require the patient to face their fears and overcome them. A doctor may also prescribe anti-anxiety or antidepressant drugs to help the patient deal with the symptoms of anxiety.
Social anxiety can be devastating to the sufferer if they anxiety is not properly treated. The feelings of severe anxiety and fear can keep people from taking part in social situations and may even cause them to cut themselves off from other people. If treated properly, sufferers can experience relief from these symptoms and learn to live with their anxiety.
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