Living with Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is a common mental health condition that causes intense fear and discomfort in social situations, including interacting with others, meeting new people, or being in public. It can be debilitating, affecting all aspects of life, from work to personal relationships.

Along with seeking professional help, you can manage your anxiety with strategies and techniques such as:

1. Self-care – Regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and eating a healthy diet can help reduce anxiety.
2. Mindfulness – Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
3. Challenging negative thoughts – Learning to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with more positive ones can help reduce feelings of anxiety.
4. Exposure – Gradually exposing oneself to social situations can help reduce anxiety over time.
5. Seeking support – Talking to a trusted friend or family member about feelings of anxiety can provide emotional support and validation.

If you or someone you know is in distress, CALL or TEXT 988 or go to https://988lifeline.org for help. The counselors will also help family members.