Social anxiety disorder is a persistent, overwhelming fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected. These fears can make it difficult to attend gatherings, speak in public, or even perform daily activities like shopping or meeting new people. But healing is possible with the right support. Riverside Psychology, serving Westchester County, New York, shares some tips for navigating social anxiety disorder symptoms.
Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder
People with social anxiety disorder often experience intense worry before, during, and after social encounters. Symptoms can include:
Rapid heartbeat
Sweating
Shaking
Blushing
Nausea
Rumination
Avoidance
Over time, individuals may experience lower self-esteem, which can interfere with work or relationships.
Tips for Managing Symptoms
Living with social anxiety disorder can make interactions feel stressful, but there are ways to help ease discomfort and build confidence.
Start Small
Practice a lower-stress social activity, like making eye contact and saying hello to a neighbor. Repeating these actions reminds you that connection can feel safe, providing comfort and reassurance.
Focus On Breathing
When you notice your body tensing up, take a slow breath in through your nose and exhale gently through your mouth. This signals to your body that you are not in danger, reducing stress and anxiety.
Challenge Unhelpful Thoughts
Social anxiety often whispers that you’ve said the wrong thing or that others are judging you. When those thoughts appear, try to question them: “Is this thought helping me, or is it just my anxiety talking?” This shift can reduce symptom intensity and help you regain control.
Prepare and Allow Flexibility
Thinking about what you’d like to say in a social situation can be helpful, but conversations don’t always go as planned. Focus on listening and responding naturally instead of trying to sound perfect.
While self-care is vital, therapy can offer extra support. Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based strategies, or exposure therapy can reduce avoidance and increase comfort in social settings.
Consider Professional Support
You don’t have to face social anxiety disorder alone. The compassionate therapists at Riverside Psychology can guide you with therapy services in Westchester County, NY. Please reach out to schedule an appointment.