What is Social Anxiety?
Social anxiety can simply be defined as the fear of social situations. It is a mental health condition that manifests in the form of fear of social interaction. Sufferers are often too conscious of other people around them, and feel vulnerable in an irrational manner. They are afraid of being judged or evaluated negatively and this result to feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, self-consciousness, embarrassment, humiliation, and depression.
For individuals that have social anxiety, finding a partner can be one of the most difficult things in life. It is quite uncomfortable for them to interact in a social setting and when it comes to interactions that have the potentials of resulting in relationships, their distress reaches a whole new level. This is often devastating and make many give up the idea of having a boyfriend or a girlfriend at all.
This shouldn’t be the case, however. There are ways to overcome social anxiety and increase your chances of finding a partner. Here’s three strategies that can help.
Try Less-Stressful Environments
While it is advisable to try to move out of your comfort zone and meet new people, it is essential that you avoid places that promote too much social behaviour like bars, clubs, and big parties. In most instances, such environments do not produce the kind of energy needed to overcome your social anxiety.
In fact, they increase your stress level and heighten your anxiety. Try low-key environments with smaller groups. Groups that promote shared interest (like book clubs) can be the ideal place to socialize and meet new people. Also try taking a class or joining a Meetup group for an activity that you like. Although it will probably still be stressful to be socializing, it will be in a smaller group and focused on an activity, rather than focused simply on socializing.
Play It Safe
While it might be tempting to make the first impression while meeting new people, it is always easier to play it safe to avoid further stress. You may feel having a new hairstyle and trying out some new makeup will enhance your appearance and appeal to a potential girlfriend or boyfriend, but this can easily backfire.
Such new attempts can get you easily worried and ruin your chances of relaxing and speaking naturally. Instead of trying something new, go for whatever you are used to that makes you comfortable. This is the best way to beat stress and stay confident.
Control Your Panic When You Meet People
When you finally get the chance to meet new people, you may panic, but do not be too mindful of it. There are physical signs that may indicate that you are about to give in to your anxiety such as light-headedness, rapid heartbeat and sweating.
Once you notice these signs, try the best you can to relax while maintaining a smile. Deep breathing is often a good way to keep your physical symptoms in check and overcome social anxiety. Learn how to breathe deep; it is quite helpful in handling the symptoms when they come.
Social anxiety can be a major problem but it shouldn’t stop you from finding a partner and enjoying a great relationship. There are things you can do to manage the condition. You can also speak to a therapist to help you out. Counselling has been found to be beneficial to several individuals and can be your best option at finding a lasting solution to your social anxiety.