What Is Social Anxiety?

by Raoul on November 18, 2009

Do you feel inhibited and social anxiety around people? Everyone experiences nerves and anxiousness once in a while; going on a first date, introducing yourself at a new work place, or presenting a meeting. So what identifies social anxiety disorder?

Social anxiety sufferers find social experiences tremendously fearful. Fear of humiliation and embarrassment are possible reasons. The fear is so great that they will normally try and do anything to get out of a social situation.

When they have no choice but to confront a social experience they feel overwhelmed and have thoughts of making a clown of themselves. They end up sabotaging themselves with negative self talk only increasing anxiety. They become a complete nervous wreck and unable to relax.

Physical anxiety symptoms such as sweating, shaking, trembling and a racing heart only worsen the experience. After a bad experience sufferers replay them over in their minds. These experiences can be devastating for a sufferer’s confidence and make them want to avoid further experiences.

Social anxiety can be treated however with a number of different methods and therapies. Medication alone is relatively ineffective at treating social anxiety. The reason is because medication does not treat the root cause of anxiety. Doctors normally prescribe antidepressants, benzodiazepines and beta blockers for physical symptoms.

It’s important to be aware of the possible dangers and side effects of taking medication. Seek the advice of a qualified doctor before you decide on taking medication. Many people choose not to take medication because of the possible risks involved. There are other alternatives to consider.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a therapy that has been used successfully to treat anxiety symptoms. Therapy helps a sufferer manage and even control oncoming symptoms of anxiety little by little. Stress and anxiety can often spiral out of control. Give yourself a break by learning to relax properly. Breathing exercises a few times a day can help you forget about the day and put things in perspective.

Find somewhere quiet to relax or play some soothing music. Relax and drop your muscles as you breath in slowly. A slow stretch is a great way to loosen up and get you ready.

As well as therapy there are lots ways to tackle social anxiety including self-help guides. Get your life back by getting treatment today. Click to visit the panic symptoms health blog and get the answers you need.

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