Is your extreme shyness in public really social anxiety? It's normal for people to sometimes feel a little nervous and shy around other people. First dates, being introduced to someone new, giving a presentation at a meeting, being watched while demonstrating something; in these situations it's fine to feel a little anxious and apprehensive.

This is not social anxiety although some symptoms may be similar. Sufferers may find social experiences very difficult to deal with and even intolerable. Thoughts of being ridiculed and laughed at by others are typical behaviors.

The term Social phobia and Social Anxiety Disorder are used interchangeably. Negative emotional experiences through childhood are one of the prime causes of this disorder. Being called up in front of class, being laughed and teased at by other kids, being neglected, being criticized by parents; growing up can be tough for a child.

Because diagnosis and treatment needs to face to face help, many sufferers find it very difficult to seek help. Some sufferers resort to binge drinking and even drug use to help alleviate their symptoms. These can further worsen the symptoms in the long term. In addition, many have lived with their condition for years and do not believe that they can be cured.
There are in fact many therapies such as CBT that have worked with extreme social anxiety sufferers. Furthermore, new therapies are being used aside from old methods. If you're interested in these latest techniques click here to read more.

 

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