How Can You Overcome Social Anxiety?
Find The Source – Try to determine the source of the anxiety. Think back to when the problem started and look at how you have or have not resolved it in the past as a guide to helping yourself now and in the future.
You don't have to be "The life of the Party" to be social - Just be you. Focus on your strengths. Are you a good listener? A kind person? A good observer? Do you share an interest with others? The world needs good communicators but it also needs good listeners.
Take a Deep Breath – Deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress, and in turn, reduce the anxiety response.
Take Small Steps – Try starting out with smaller groups and build up to larger ones.
Don’t Talk Yourself Out of It – Many times people talk themselves out of doing things they want to do by focusing on the negatives, try focusing on the positives when such thoughts occur.
Take Someone With You – Having a friend or someone you already know with you can help reduce social anxiety.
Distract Yourself – When you begin to feel anxious, try thinking about something else, perhaps think about what you are going to eat for lunch or dinner, etc. to occupy your mind.
Rehearse – Practice with a friend or small group prior to going to a larger group to build your confidence.
Take breaks when you need them - If you are feeling overwhelmed, there is nothing wrong with taking short breaks to recuperate. Go to the bathroom, go outside for fresh air etc.
If all else fails, seek the help of a Therapist - You don't have to be "crazy" to get therapy. Therapy helps to exercise the mind and develop better coping skills. If you go to the Gym to exercise your body, consider going to a Therapist to exercise your mind.
By Charity Loring, LMSW & James Clapper, Graduate Level Intern, Loring Therapy, LLC
www.Loringtherapy.com
Adapted from: : http://voices.yahoo.com/10-tips-coping-social-anxiety-1882392.html
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