Social anxiety is a persistent and intense fear of situations in which the sufferer feels exposed to the scrutiny, and possible negative evaluation, of others.
Social anxiety is similar to shyness, but more lasting and chronic. Shyness, though embarrassing and uncomfortable, is temporary and wears off when the shy person becomes more comfortable in their social environment. Social anxiety, on the other hand, is chronic in nature, does not lessen with an increase in exposure to social situations, and can have a seriously debilitating effect on the sufferer's life and ability to function normally.
Symptoms of social anxiety disorder can include:
• Intense, crippling fear of social situations (i.e. small groups of people, dates, bars, parties, talking to strangers)
• Excessive avoidance of social situations
• Extreme self-awareness or self-consciousness in social situations
• Self-criticism, feeling that you've behaved poorly
• Sweating, nausea, palpitations, dizziness
Most people with Social Anxiety don't even know that there's a name for their condition. Only one in twenty people with Social Anxiety will even seek treatment for their condition. That is unfortunate...
Fortunately, here is a little secret (of many) I have picked up over the years that I will share with you to help treat social anxiety disorder. It is one part of a holistic approach that anyone can immediately benefit from. Right now, listen...to yourself...What are the voices in your head saying?
How we talk to ourselves affects how we feel and act.
When we choose what voices in our head we will listen to, we gain control of our thoughts, feelings and behaviors and we conquer anxiety and panic attacks.
Some voices are negative and not worth listening to:
Angry Victim Voice: Blames others, complains, easily angered, bitter, sure they're being treated unfairly. This often leads you to frustration and anger.
Hopeless Voice: Believes something is wrong with you, expects you to fail, life will never be fair to you, pessimistic. This can lead to depression.
Self-Critical Voice: Reminds you of what a failure you are, your mistakes, your flaws. Can lead to low self-esteem or low motivation.
Good voice: Who is Your Buddy? YOU is Your Buddy Rather than listen to the negative voices and feed the anxiety, depression and panic, you can listen to Your Buddy.
Buddy Voice
• Reminds you of your freedom and choices
• Supports your efforts
• Is optimistic - expects positive future outcomes and reminds you of your past successes
• Believes in you and lets you trust yourself
• Focused on solutions rather than the problems
Your Buddy is in your head and he or she is ready to lead you to SAFETY, CONFIDENCE and HAPPINESS. Buddy is not a fan of anxiety, depression or panic and is ALWAYS there to help you.
Social anxiety disorder is a real challenge for many people. Your Buddy is one of many ways to help. What is keeping you from living the life you desire?
Discover more effective and natural social anxiety disorder treatments so you can start living free from social anxiety disorder. Visit this site so you can treat social anxiety disorder. Don't forget to grab a copy of my free Map to Happiness
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_K.