Where Does Social Anxiety Come From & How Do I Manage the Symptoms?

You would consider yourself to be a social person. You love your family and friends, spending time with them, and doing fun activities together. But you’d be lying if you said you would be down to say “yes” to all social get-togethers or gatherings.

Certain social events can bring on feelings of uneasiness. If you’ve ever felt this way in your personal, school, or work life, you’re definitely not alone. Certain events like starting a new class, meeting a new friend or romantic partner, or giving a big presentation can give you that “butterflies in the stomach” feeling.

Any worsening signs and symptoms can mean a larger issue is at play, like social anxiety. Let’s learn more about social anxiety, its origin, and how to manage the symptoms.

What is Social Anxiety?

Social anxiety is a mental health condition that can cause individuals to have a fear when they’re involved in social situations. The fear is typically related to feeling embarrassed, humiliated, judged, or rejected by others when attending social engagements.

The Cause

There isn’t one exact cause of social anxiety. The cause of social anxiety can be related to several different factors. These are a few of the most common causes or risk factors of social anxiety:

• Brain chemistry or structure

• Environment

• Family history

• Inherited traits

• Negative life experiences

• New social or career-related roles, responsibilities, or demands

• Temperament

The Signs and Symptoms

Many different behavioral, emotional, and physical signs and symptoms can be related to social anxiety. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms to look for if you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with this condition:

Behavioral

• Avoiding social situations

• Criticizing their performance in social situations

• Difficulty talking or speaking up

• Expecting the worst-case scenario

Emotional

• Being afraid to be around people, especially individuals that you don’t know

• Fear of being judged

• Self-consciousness

• Worry that someone will notice your anxiety

Physical

• Blushing

• Digestive issues

• Dizziness

• Increased heart rate

• Muscle aches and pains

• Nausea

• Shaking or trembling

• Sweating

How to Manage Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is a common condition that a lot of people struggle with. There are many unknowns in life that can increase someone’s anxiety levels. Even though it may feel like your social anxiety is taking control of your life, it doesn’t have to. Here are some ways that you can better manage it.

Take Care of Yourself

Taking care of yourself can ensure that you feel good from the inside out. This means eating healthy and well-balanced meals, prioritizing sleep by aiming for at least eight hours each night, and finding at least thirty minutes each day to move your body.

Write in a Journal

Writing in a journal can give you a great place to put those worries instead of holding them inside of yourself. Not only can it make you feel better in the moment, but it’s also a great tool to look back on later and reflect on what may have caused those worries, as well as the coping mechanisms that worked or didn’t work for you.

Avoid Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

It’s important to rely on healthy coping mechanisms when trying to self-soothe with social anxiety. This means avoiding things like alcohol, drugs, gambling, driving recklessly, or having unsafe sex. Unhealthy coping mechanisms can lead to worsening signs and symptoms.

Get Help

The longer that someone struggles with social anxiety without reaching out for property treatment, the more difficult it can be to treat. If you suspect that you or someone you love is struggling with social anxiety, therapy can help. Reach out today to set up an appointment.