Does the thought of speaking in public, eating or drinking in front of others, or changing into your gym clothes in the locker room freak you out? If you often feel anxious and excessively self-conscious in everyday social situations, you may be experiencing a disorder known as social anxiety.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the physical symptoms of social anxiety disorder may include blushing, profuse sweating, trembling, nausea, and difficulty talking. You may worry for days or weeks before a dreaded situation, fearing impending embarrassment. The disorder is also characterized by an intense and chronic fear of being watched and judged by others.
When it comes to anxiety, it's almost always easier to numb yourself with food than it is to address your emotions in an appropriate way. However, the next time you experience anxiety, I want you to try to identify the source of it and seize the opportunity to act on it directly and positively. For example, if you've had an argument with someone, try to talk it through with that person. If you've got a deadline looming, work a little harder on the project so you feel that you're on top of it.
Approximately 15 million American men and women are affected by social anxiety, so if you have this condition, you're definitely not alone. One of the dangers of social anxiety is that it makes you susceptible to depression and substance abuse. If you think that social anxiety disorder is taking a toll on you and your lifestyle, you should seek help from your physician or therapist. Tackling your emotional challenges will put you back in control and help you achieve your maximum potential!
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