Social Anxiety
Another part of life that is becoming ever more present is social phobia, more commonly known as social anxiety. This involves a fear of speaking to people whether it’s large groups, individuals, or any other social situation. People with social anxiety will often worry about the social situation before it has happened and as result, work themselves up over it, in fear that they might say something that could be considered rude, offensive etc.
It’s perfectly normal to feel shy or awkward when going to a social event that could include people you’re not familiar with. However, social anxiety can completely overwhelm some people and they might find it difficult to speak to people on the phone and to authoritative figures such as teachers or parents or bosses. They may also find it difficult to go out to the shops, and even eating and drinking in front of people can be a struggle. With all these difficulties that they face, it’s all the more reason to be more mindful of what they’re going through.
On the positive side, however, just like loneliness, social anxiety can be improved and mended. Ways of doing this include breathing exercises to reduce stress, focusing on what people are saying, trying not to assume the worst and breaking down social situations into smaller sections so that they are not as overwhelming as they could be, for example, if someone doesn’t like talking on the phone, they can text people. Once they’ve established a relationship with them, they may feel more comfortable talking to them over the phone, and as a result, potentially reduce their levels of social anxiety.
At some point in our lives, we’re most likely to feel some loneliness, or feel some isolation. Or feel shy and awkward meeting people for the first time. It’s only natural that we do, Overcoming these feelings can be difficult and it can take time, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not doable. And if you know someone who feeling alone, if you see someone who are by themself all the time, speak to them. Let them know that they’re alone, and that they have people who care about them, and will spend time with them.
Have a listen to our empathy podcast.