People commonly feel on edge or nervous when having to give a big speech or presentation. Public speaking is still the number one fear among people, rated higher than a fear of death. However, for some people social situations can be far more than a little embarrassing. Some people can be so overwhelmed with feelings of inadequacy, fear, self loathing and shyness that it becomes a serious concern. In this case, medical professionals deem this problem to be labeled as social anxiety. Nevertheless, these social anxiety symptoms can be treated with patience and fortitude. Here is a list of some common symptoms of social anxiety disorder and some possible treatment strategies.
Social Anxiety Symptoms - Common Psychological And Physical Symptoms
- Intense worry for days, weeks, or even months preceding an upcoming social event.
- Irrational fear of being observed or judged by peers or by people you don’t know.
- Excessive self-consciousness and anxiety in common social settings, even with people you know.
- Fear that you’ll behave in ways that that will reflect poorly on yourself.
- Concern that others will see that you’re nervous.
- Staying out of social situations to where it limits your life.
Physical Symptoms
- Pounding heart or tightness in chest
- Trembling voice
- Quick breathing
- Sweating or hot flashes
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Dry mouth
- Shaking
- Muscle tension
- Blushing
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Clammy hands
- Twitching
These common symptoms are not all the social anxiety symptoms a person may experience with a social phobia. Other symptoms may appear and differing depending on a case by case basis. However, here are some common treatments and precautions one can take in order to mitigate the effects of social anxiety and reduce the likelihood of it appearing on a regular basis.
Avoid or limit caffeine
Cutting out this stimulant can reduce a person’s nervousness and calm one’s nerves. If you fear social situations limit your caffeine intake to lower your heart rate, calm your metabolism and reduce your blood pressure.
Limit alcohol consumption
Consuming excess amounts of alcohol can actually cause an anxiety attack rather than calm one’s nerves.
Stop smoking
Similar to caffeine but with extra health concerns, quitting smoking and abstaining from nicotine stimulants will help you deal with social anxiety in a similar fashion as abstaining from caffeinated beverages.
Sleep
One of the most common factors for causing social anxiety symptoms is a lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep can lead to a host of other conditions beyond social anxiety. Make sure you receive seven to eight hours of sleep per night in order to keep yourself healthy and on a regular day/night cycle.
Medication
If your social anxiety is strong enough a medical professional can prescribe medication to help you with your condition. However, it is important to read the directions carefully in order to not suffer from any adverse side effects from the drugs. Follow the recommendation of a doctor closely before beginning any treatment regimen.
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