FIVE EXPERT RECOMMENDED METHODS FOR SOCIAL ANXIETY SUFFERS TO MAKE AND KEEP FRIENDS NOW: START TODAY

When you have severe anxiety and you try to be sociable it is like trying to jump 100 feet into the air.  It can't be done. Avoidance of friends and acquaintances is a symptom of anxiety.  When I work with soldiers with PTSD they avoid socializing with friends. They have learned in combat that strangers are dangerous. Thus, they run the risk of running into strangers at their friend’s social event. It is painful for them but also their families. Spouses and children suffer due to their marked anxiety and social avoidance. Relationships often deteriorate and sometimes lead to separation or even divorce.

People with social anxiety of any kind fear that something bad will happen in a social situation. They are often convinced that negative outcomes will occur if they socialize. They are aware that their behavior is not typical.  Yet, the resistance to social interaction is so strong they avoid. Thus, they risk the danger of rating themselves negatively and further losing confidence.

Having an anxiety disorder makes it difficult for people to get along with you. It becomes a struggle to spend time with you and thus some people just give up trying. Funny thing is that when the person is having a "good day" they may be more receptive to socialization. This makes you unpredictable which may alienate friends. Of course, many of those with anxiety bale out of social engagements at the last minute. This is not the bet way to make or keep friends.

Excessive worry contributes to the bale outs. "At the restaurant will we have to split the bill?"  "Maybe I will have to talk about things that are hard?"  "Will I run out of things to say?" They worry about their worry? "Will I have a panic attack?" You can see how this irrational thinking gets the upper hand. If you suffer from this kind of social anxiety, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many people feel anxious in social situations.

Five (5) Steps to Overcome Social Fear.

First, challenge your irrational thoughts.  How will you feel in 6 months’ time if you fail to attend this social gathering? Even if it goes wrong, will it matter in a year’s time?

Second, use calming techniques.

Learn deep breathing exercises that can calm you down and lend you the confidence to cope in social situation.    Follow these steps. Sit on a comfortable chair or lay on the bed.

You Can Overcome Social Anxiety

Breathe in for approximately 4 seconds to the nose if possible. Release the breath in 4 to 6 seconds. (It's important that you're never hungry for air and basically breathing at your own pace. Say to yourself the word “Calm” as you breathe out. Practice, practice, practice. You will then develop this habit.

Third, before you go out that day, exercise to reduce stress and anxiety. Go out for a jog or cycle in the park. Listen to some soothing music while you are at it as well.

Fourth, keep a positive outlook. Do some advanced organization. Limit your time out to what you can handle and communicate that time to your friend. What really matters is the fact that you actually made a step in being more social.

Fifth, reward yourself for having achieved a successful outing. Focus on what you did not on what you didn’t do well.

 Contact us at Fearless Mind if you want ore help with overcoming social anxiety. Reach out to someone who can help.