**Medical Warning:** The following information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, is a common anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of social situations. If you often experience excessive worry and discomfort in everyday interactions, you might be dealing with social anxiety disorder. This isn’t just occasional shyness; it’s a persistent fear of being judged or scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance of social events and activities. Understanding the symptoms of social anxiety is the first step towards finding effective strategies for connection.
Symptoms of social anxiety can range from physical manifestations like sweating and trembling to emotional responses such as intense fear and panic. You might find yourself overanalyzing social interactions, worrying about saying the wrong thing, or feeling like everyone is watching you. These symptoms can significantly impact your relationships, career, and overall quality of life. Recognizing these signs and understanding that you’re not alone is crucial for seeking help and support.
Overcoming social anxiety is possible with the right tools and strategies. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often recommended to help identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to social anxiety. Exposure therapy, a type of CBT, can gradually help you face feared social situations, reducing anxiety over time. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness can help manage anxiety symptoms in the moment. Building a support system, whether through friends, family, or support groups, can also provide valuable encouragement and understanding.
If social anxiety is impacting your daily life, seeking professional help is essential. A mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan. Remember, overcoming social anxiety is a journey, and with the right support, you can learn to navigate social situations with confidence and connect with others more freely.
Source : Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA).
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I am a bilingual Puerto Rican therapist and Coordinator Supervisor with a deep commitment to community well-being. With four years in mental health and over ten years as a Community Coordinator, my career has been dedicated to serving diverse populations. My work is rooted in my experience as a mental health counselor, where I developed a deep passion for advocating and creating meaningful connections between communities in need and available services. I am committed to building robust systems with strong foundations—aimed not only at supporting individuals today but also at shaping a healthier, more resilient future for generations to come.
I am a Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, trained in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I completed my MD at Yale School of Medicine, my PhD at Yale, Oxford University, and the National Institutes of Health, and my residency and fellowship training in the Yale Department of Psychiatry and Yale Child Study Center. I grew up in Southern New England, and consider this home. I aim to provide evidence-based, person-centered care, informed by the latest understandings in psychiatric research, and with compassion and optimism.
