Emotional Problems

• A social anxiety disorder prevents the potential of meeting new friends and having new people to be part of everyday life. Those with social anxiety disorder will purposely avoid a situation where making new friends is a possibility
• Symptoms of panic disorder are much like social anxiety disorders. However, the chest pain experienced during a panic episode will sometimes feel like an oncoming heart attack
• Learning to breathe deep will send relaxation messages throughout your body
• Spend time with people in your comfort zone. Slowly branch out to meeting a stranger now and then, with a positive attitude that you will not be judged and a new friend may be on the horizon
• When symptoms seem to be approaching, talk to someone close to you about how you are feeling. Admitting the anxiety may help you overcome the symptoms

Social situations may cause awkwardness with stomach butterflies for anyone. Giving a public presentation, meeting the girlfriend’s family for the first time, toasting as the best man at a wedding are all examples of social scenarios which may be uneasy for anyone. At times, those jittery feelings cannot be avoided. However, for most they will subside after the initial spoken words. Those with social anxiety disorders will not find it as easy to eventually relax in such social situations. In fact, sufferers of this social phobia will avoid a social situation at any cost. They will begin to sweat, tremble, stutter, or more at the thought of mingling with others. These and other indications of social anxiety disorders are similar to symptoms of panic disorders. However, symptoms of panic disorders sometimes include chest pain.

Overcoming phobias is not always an easy task. However, various experts have come up with ways to ease the anxieties of socializing. Some lifestyle changes may be recommended. To begin with, limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine. We think these substances take the nervous edge off. However, the relaxation from pacifying symptoms with a cigarette, martini, or cup of coffee is short lived. Learn true relaxation techniques which do not include sitting at a computer or watching television. Learn deep breathing techniques. This type of breathing relaxes nerves which run from the diaphragm to the brain. The entire body will realize you should loosen up and let go.

Good sleep, the right foods, and exercise will play a huge role in giving you strength and keeping you more at peace with certain situations. Get the proper amount of sleep every night. Snack on fruit instead of sugary items. Eat plenty of vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Exercise will send oxygen to cells within the body. This will enhance the brain and body to optimally function.

Spend time with the people you do feel comfortable with. Activities with family and friends will give you a feeling of security before further social situations which are discomforting to you come about. If a circumstance is presented unexpectedly, know you will find comfort in the friend or family member. If something is making you nervous, bring yourself to talking it over with someone in your comfort zone of people. Facing that anxious thought by admitting it aloud will slowly give you better coping skills.

Find a place which is relaxing to you and take a walk or bike ride there. When surrounded by nature, a natural peace will make you more relaxed as you enjoy your surroundings. Find a friend or family member to join you in a nature walk or hike. You will not only be connected with your natural surroundings, you will have more connection with people as well.

Make a continuous effort to think positive and happy thoughts. Always imagine the best outcome of any situation. Focus on beautiful things. Smile with the thought of a new baby or perky puppy. Think good thoughts and don’t be afraid to dream.

Tags: social anxiety disorders, symptoms of panic disorder

Posted on Saturday, May 16th, 2009 at 9:56 am | Emotional Problems