How to Manage Extreme Social Anxiety So You Can Find Freedom

Most of us have felt the common symptoms of anxiety when presented with a public situation, like giving a speech, speaking up in court, or walking across a stage. However, people who struggle with extreme social anxiety can become physically ill when faced with the same situations.

What Is Extreme Social Anxiety?

Extreme social anxiety goes beyond the average anxiety response of sweaty palms, butterflies in the tummy, and first-day jitters. People struggling with extreme social anxiety report the following symptoms when faced with a social event or situation.

• Rapid heart rate or heart palpitations.
• Excessive sweating and clammy skin.
• Trembling.
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, and face.
• Stomach distress, such as nausea, vomiting, or acid reflux.
• Fear they will embarrass themselves or others.
• Overthinking social situations.
• Panic attacks before or during the social outing.
• Negative thoughts about the social situation.
• Low self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Avoiding social situations and events.

You can overcome extreme social anxiety through self-help, lifestyle changes, and counseling.

Tips for Managing Extreme Social Anxiety

Managing extreme social anxiety takes work. Although you want nothing more than to avoid social interactions, the more you expose yourself to these situations, the more you build resilience. Seek professional help if you need support. God did not create you to hide. You are here for a purpose. It is time to break the chains of anxiety and step into your purpose.

Seek professional help For some people, making lifestyle changes and practicing techniques are something they can do on their own. For others with extreme social anxiety, even reaching out to a counselor is a feat. Seek professional help if you feel that you cannot move forward or if your anxiety is ruining your relationships or career. Take it one step at a time and congratulate yourself on being brave enough to reach out for help.

Find group support You can learn a great deal from others experiencing the same symptoms as you. Find a support group in your area for those struggling with social anxiety. Often, these groups are hosted by counselors, psychologists, or people who have overcome social anxiety.

Practice healthy sleep habits Sleep plays a major role in managing emotions and anxiety. If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, consider creating a nighttime routine. Avoid devices and screens at least two hours before bedtime, and do not exercise at least three hours before sleep. Choose quiet activities to help you wind down and signal to your brain it is time for rest. For example, take a warm bath, put on pajamas, and snuggle in bed with a book.

Ask about cognitive behavioral therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) analyzes the thought-emotion-behavior cycle and works to reframe the thoughts or behaviors to change the emotions.

Learn more about exposure therapy Exposure therapy is a controlled and safe method of introducing a person to social situations a little at a time to get them accustomed to the thoughts and emotions associated with them. You can combine exposure therapy with CBT to reframe the thoughts and change the behaviors. Counselors suggest starting small and working your way up as you progress.

Is Social Anxiety Interfering with Your Life?

If extreme social anxiety is interfering with your work and relationships, seek help from a Christian counselor today. Psychotherapy is an effective means for managing extreme social anxiety as well as other mental conditions. Your counselor may recommend lifestyle changes, talk therapy, group therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or Exposure Therapy.

When you choose Christian counseling, you select a method backed by psychology and faith-based principles. Contact our office today to schedule a session.