Question 1

What is Social Anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Social anxiety is a chronic mental health condition where an individual experiences intense fear of negative judgment in social situations, leading to distress and avoidance.

Question 2

What is the difference between shyness and Social Anxiety disorder?

Accepted Answer

Shyness is occasional discomfort in social settings and is normal. Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) involves severe, persistent fear of social interaction and judgment, leading to avoidance, emotional distress, and difficulty functioning in daily life.

Question 3

What are the main signs and symptoms of Social Anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms include intense fear of social situations, avoidance of social interactions, fear of being judged, and physical symptoms like sweating, rapid heartbeat, trembling, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

Question 4

How to manage Social Anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Management strategies include self-care (identifying triggers, keeping a diary, practicing relaxation techniques), connecting with support groups, sharing experiences, and gradually engaging in social situations to build confidence.

Question 5

How do therapy and psychiatry help in treating Social Anxiety disorder?

Accepted Answer

Therapy helps by improving social skills, challenging negative thoughts, and reducing self-focus. Psychiatry can prescribe medications like SSRIs to reduce anxiety, manage panic attacks, and monitor progress for long-term improvement.

Question 6

How to overcome social anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Overcoming social anxiety involves Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, gradual exposure to feared situations, challenging negative thoughts, practicing relaxation, and building social skills.

Question 7

How can I control anxious thoughts in social situations?

Accepted Answer

Techniques include thought challenging (questioning the accuracy of fears), mindfulness (staying present), deep breathing to calm the nervous system, and refocusing on external conversations or activities.

Question 8

How can counselling help with social anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Counselling helps identify triggers, challenge negative thought patterns, use exposure therapy to reduce fear, build social and assertiveness skills, and develop effective relaxation and coping techniques.

Question 9

Is online therapy effective for social anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Online therapy, including CBT and exposure therapy, is effective for social anxiety. It offers convenient access and is especially helpful for people who struggle to attend in-person sessions due to anxiety.

Overcome Social Anxiety And Be Yourself