Social Anxiety Disorder - How to Overcome It
Fear of Being Watched by Others
The fear of being watched is one of the most common psychological symptoms experienced by individuals with social anxiety disorder. Social anxiety shows up as a kind of disorder where a person feels an extreme and constant self-consciousness when placed in social settings. More often than not, fears and other negative perceptions associated with the disorder are unreasonable and excessive. But still, people with social anxiety have no way of controlling both physical and psychological symptoms they experience. Other common symptoms include difficulty speaking, nausea, shaking, sweating and blushing.
There are different ways to battle social anxiety. Medical treatment will be based on family history, the type of social anxiety disorder experienced and present medications taken. Support groups, group therapy and cognitive-behaviorial therapy are included in the physiological treatment. Each method will vary on the severity of an individual’s case.
Social anxiety disorder can also be approached the natural way. Self-help therapy also works for many individuals.
- Physical exercise. Social Anxiety stems from the response of the body to outside factors. Exercise is one of the great ways to burn adrenaline off. It doesn’t only contribute to a person’s physical health, but it also restores inner balance as well.
- Observe a healthy lifestyle. Always eat healthy food and follow a proper, balanced diet. Steer clear from drug and alcohol abuse. Though it may seem that drugs and alcohol have a calming effect on you, on the contrary, they will only worsen things and create more problems in the process.
- Avoid or limit caffeine intake. Caffeine is present in tea, chocolate, sodas and coffee. Since caffeine is a stimulant, it will just intensify anxiety.
- Develop relationships. Spend time with individuals who inspire you and make you feel great inside, like friends, family members or relatives. These people can help you face your inner battle with social anxiety. So, take small steps. Start with people whom you are comfortable with. Learn to open up, share your fears and thoughts with them. Laugh more and worry less.
- Help someone out. Usually, helping other people out is one of the best ways to keep your thoughts from things that worry you and give you a different perspective on things. Get involved in various volunteer works for your community, church or neighbourhood. Consider this a good break from your own worries and yourself.
- Keep a journal. A journal can give you a clear perspective as to what triggers your anxiety. This is one of the ways where you can discover a lot about yourself. Write regularly, your fears frustrations and what you are do to fight anxiety.