How long untill i get over social anxiety?

Question

I'v had it for 2-years now, and i'm finally trying to get rid of "it".
Since i'm not exactly "popular", and very werid i want it gone sense it's making getting freinds and holding a conversation hard, and always has been.


So, how fast untill it goes away? i started trying to become more social two days ago.

Answer 1

social anxiety? you can't really expect it to go away by a certain time. it's an internal pain you have to work out on your own. i used to be that way but now i'm popular. my case probably isn't exactly like yours, but try making friends. i don't meean at school since that's where you seem to have your problems. go to a two or three week camp. go on a teen cruise. join online things like myspace.com or gaiaonline... try new things, it'll help you get more connected. so what if you can't be popular? just make one or more close friends. they are so much better then just being accepted. i'll be your friend no problem and not out of simpathy or any of that crap. i have a myspace, gaia, hi5, tickle, etc. so just send me some email sometime and we can be friends. ^___^ V i'm here for you through anything!

Answer 2

It's great that you are taking steps to become more sociable.

There is a book is called "Proverbs" by Solomon Ben-David, you can find a copy of it in the Bible.

There is another book I'm going to recommend you read. It's called, "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie.

Just remember this, everyone likes confidence. You could have a gross disfigurement, but if you have an awesome attitude, you'll be a winner in everyones book.

Rules for becoming more sociable. Be the first to introduce yourself with a firm handshake and a solid look in the eye. Ask lots of questions about others (people love to talk about themselves), stay away from potentially awkward topics like sex and politics until you get to know the person better. Acquire good etiquette (check a book out in the library).

The more you know the less anxiety you'll have, the more confidence you'll exude.

Lastly, use your strengths, if you got a talent or hobby share them with others and keep building those areas up.

Answer 3

I had the same problem. What I did was invited the few (meaning 2) friends I had over for a party and told them to bring friends of their's. The party was based around video games since thats something I enjoy and like to talk about. Plan this out then tell the friends you have, or even just acquaintances, that you want them to come and what ever your party is based around. If your problem is as bad as mine was expect a few "no"s. Then throw the party and make sure to be a good host! It is easier to talk to people when you are in a more familiar setting like your own house. If you have no friends at all then wait for the right moment to join a conversation. If in a large group then expect them to push you away at first. Then later after the group starts going where ever they are going. Talk to one and say something on the lines of "sorry if it seemed like i was butting in, but i noticed you were talking about *insert subject here*. I didnt know anyone else liked that". If that doesnt work with that group then forget them they are probably assholes anyway. Try the party thing first tho.

Answer 4

Depends on you and your comfort zone. It sounds like you still have a long way to go. But if you make it a daily effort to engage in lengthy conversations, you should eventually get use to that social feeling.

I'd say you can get there in a month or two.

Answer 5

Sugar how old are you?

It's been my experience that things like this can get worse the older you get....

But do not despair. You can improve. Try therapy and medications.

My mother in law suffered from social anxiety.... And unfortunately it was passed along to my children.

My daughter has full blown panic attacks. She takes Prozac and it works miracles for her. My son uses Effexor. And it works greatly for him.

Taking meds is fine. It helps your brain operate correctly.......

go for it!

Answer 6

Social phobia which leads to anxiety issues are mental illnesses you need to seek professional help for it . I was diagnosed many many years ago and for me it really depends on the level of my stress , Remember you can control it , keep doing what your doing BUT , its something you will have to do for the rest of your life , just remember to breathe when in a situation where you are going to panic , find something that you can focus on so your attack doesnt get out of hand , like ppls shoes , or thier hair , thier hands , this way you dont have to make eye contact which will increase the attack . There are medications you can take to help but i find it is better to have a clear head so im in control of the situation and can concentrate . Look it up on the internet there is tons of info for it . But keep going out dont become a hermit :) Good Luck

Answer 7

Well, for some of us it never goes away. I don't mean to be downbeat, but that's the truth. Maybe counseling is the answer. Or maybe trying to push yourself. Or maybe you'll be 50 and shy and awkward and unable to connect with others. There's no magic guarantee it's a phase, in other words.

Answer 8

Be patient -- you'll have good days and bad ones. Keep being social and trying new things. And don't try to change yourself. I find shy people can be far more interesting than the extroverts, once you get to know them. Good luck!

Answer 9

I don't think this kind of thing goes away...... Just try talk to people more, be friendly, and be yourself. True friends are ones who like you for who you are. Being shy isn't a bad thing, but when it takes over your life, then it's time to make a change.

Answer 10

P.J - for being a nurse you know nothing at all about these psychiatric medications. Medications take a long time to build up in your system and produce the needed effect. Give it 3-4 weeks.