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SOCIAL ANXIETY: COPING WITH CRITICISM

When you have social anxiety, being criticized can feel like being under attack in a war zone! It is your worst fear coming true. This is what you dread – facing the criticism nukes. Individuals with social anxiety would like to avoid all situations where there is even a small likelihood of being criticized. However,… Continue reading

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BRINGING SELF-COMPASSION TO SOCIAL ANXIETY

To see one in all and all in one is to break through the great barrier which narrows one’s perception of reality. -Thich Naht Hanh. The illusion of the self and learned beliefs If you have ever experienced social anxiety intensifying to the point of significant distress or interfering with your goals in life, you… Continue reading

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BENEFITS OF GROUP THERAPY FOR SOCIAL ANXIETY

Social anxiety can often contribute to people feeling like they are alone. Automatic thoughts such as, “I’m too awkward”, “I can’t make friends”, and “Everyone thinks I’m weird”, are hallmarks of social anxiety. These thoughts can make it difficult to reach out for help. Core Benefits of Group Work Group therapy for social anxiety has… Continue reading

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SUPPORTING A FRIEND WITH SOCIAL ANXIETY

Have you ever suspected that someone you’re close to is avoiding a social situation because of anxiety? Feeling anxious in social situations is common for many of us, but for some people, it can be debilitating. Your friend or loved-one may be suffering from social anxiety. People often hide their symptoms, so if you notice that a friend… Continue reading

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SOCIAL ANXIETY AND SMALL TALK: THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF MAKING CONVERSATION

“I’m bad at meeting people.” “I’m socially inept.” “People dislike chatting with me.” “I’m a boring conversationalist.” “Others can see that I’m anxious which they’ll think is weird, or will make them uncomfortable.” “I’m an introvert. I shouldn’t be expected to mingle. Chit chat is for extroverts!” “I hate small talk!” These are common hot… Continue reading

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SOCIAL ANXIETY: IN THE EYE OF THE STORM

What would you do if a natural disaster were going to strike your hometown in a few days? Maybe you would gather your friends and family and find shelter. When a disaster occurs, it often happens very quickly and people are not able to reach their friends and family particularly low-income families lacking resources. They… Continue reading

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THRIVING AS A COLLEGE STUDENT WITH SOCIAL ANXIETY

Opportunity or Apprehension? Starting college comes with bittersweet anticipation for most students. It’s considered a rite of passage into adulthood and with this milestone comes independence, exploration and personal development. Some see the social parts of college life as the driving force to enroll. Keg parties, fraternity or sorority life and meeting new people is,… Continue reading