I need help getting over social anxiety?

Question

No medication and I cant afford tharapy so i need some help out. I just want to be able to function normally in social settings.

Answer 1

Social anxiety can cause these feelings, which can also lead to severe depression,
http://www.socialanxietyinstitute.org/ds...

if not you could be suffering from Generalized Anxiety
Disorder..http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/general_anx...

There is hope; I've been there, and still am there, it is a long, hard struggle. I recommend
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/cognitive_b... worked best for me, with mild anti-anxiety meds. I suffered from social anxiety for over 15 years. I've tried individual therapy, and group therapy and studied psychology for 10 years, as a profession, but also with the hope to cure myself.

Depending on your comfort level, you could go to a psychologist that practices CBT and specializes in anxiety disorders, seek a group therapy, or create one. Usually those that do attend the group therapy are a bit more high functioning because as you know, it can be difficult to speak in a group.

Another idea is to see if there are any local research studies being conducted that you could participate in.

The program that finally worked the best for me is this one: http://www.socialanxiety.us/findinghelp.... and I was lucky enough to have a structured behavioral group to go along with it. Sometimes the people that actually attend this program come back home and form groups.

I recommend a mild anti-anxiety med in addition to CBT therapy.

Any questions, let me know ... I can't tell you how much this has improved my life!

Answer 2

Nikki, You may not want medication, but it sounds like you need some, at least for a while if you want to be able to function normally in social settings. Get out of the house and take a brisk walk in the sunshine every day, that'll make you feel better. Hope you'll go see a doctor for help...

Answer 3

It's all an act! What you have to do before such a situation is repeat to yourself "I am a strong and worthy person". Then go into the room (or wherever) and be that strong person. Talk to people, laugh and be polite. Keep repeating the phrase to yourself in your head. Don't forget that most other people will be anxious as well, but they are hiding it. After a few times of doing this, you will realise that nothing bad or embarrassing has happened and this will give you more confidence. Try practising as well either on your family or friends (it might seem silly but it's well worth it).

After all, what's the worst that can happen to you in that sort of position? Nothing! Now get out there and go for it! YOU CAN DO IT!

Answer 4

I've been diagnosed with Social Anxiety back in Jan. of this year..I cannot deal with crowds either..just yesterday, waiting for my ride, I sat in the lobby, watching my neighbors socialize in the common room made me sick..they're mostly gossippers and older people..I've avoided playing bingo there..I do no longer feel lonely, most of the times I didn't want to be seen around people and wanting to be by myself. May I suggest you to see your regular doctor and talk to them about your troubles and see if they can help you, with medication or what other options they have for you.. Hope things get better for you soon..

Answer 5

#1 Social Reprogramming Method - http://SocialAnxiety.uzaev.com/?eNQj

Answer 6

just remember everyone else gets anxious every once in a while. It's normal. Feel confident, appear confident, and say your opinion fearlessly. Then not only will you feel the part but also be it.

Answer 7

I'm having problems with that too; I'm shy around pretty much everyone except for people I'm around frequently as for talking, (Sometimes not even for people I talk to frequently. I don't like talking to my teachers loud enough for them to hear) and a lot of the time I won't eat around people unless they're my friends or my brothers and sisters. Sometimes I won't like eating in front of my friends... I'm not over it, but just so you know I'm with you. ;)

Answer 8

Hi Nikki, if oyu dont want to see a Doc, which is important than

I have the perfect solution to your question, but it requires a little work on your part as does anything that is worth something!! You have to watch a movie called "the secret"!! It will provide some answers directly related to your question here. Its phenominal!! Please please please give it a try. What do you have to lose?
God Bless~~

Answer 9

2 excellent books which would greatly help:
"Calming your anxious mind."
by: Jeffrey Brantley. AND
"Coming to Our Senses"
By: Jon Kabat-Zinn.

Answer 10

learn some biofeedback techniques to help you relax without drugs. example: slow deep inhales through your nose and slowly out of your mouth can work wonders on anxiety.