Social Anxiety: A Universal Battle

Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal

-Albert Camus

In this harsh society of the 21st century, adults and teenagers are battling with social anxiety. They overthink posting something or talking to someone new. They are in constant fear of how people might think of them, judge them, or react to their actions.

People often have the misconception that social anxiety is merely being an introvert. However, its meaning is significantly greater.

It is the fear of social situations and interaction with other people that can automatically bring on feelings of self-consciousness, evaluation, and inferiority. Controlled by the fear of judgment, teenagers today try to avoid social interactions to an extent where they hardly ever step out of their rooms to interact with their family.

Social anxiety disorder can have an extensive impact on a person's functioning. It can disrupt everyday life, interfere with social relationships and quality of life, and impair performance at work or school. They feel lonely, don't share their issues or even talents. People with the disorder may misuse alcohol or dr*gs to conquer their anxiety and alleviate depression. Apprehension makes drug addiction worse, and some of the side effects of these substances cause more stress.

People with social anxiety are usually the ones picked on for bullying, leading them to depression. Children with social anxiety come off as weak or vulnerable, making them a target. Bullying during adolescence leads to an increased risk of symptoms of social anxiety disorder.

If one is on the verge of facing social anxiety, discarding negative thoughts, accepting new challenges, keeping healthy, journaling, interacting with loved ones are methods to prevent it.

It is easy to tell someone to overcome their fears and have the courage to step out of their comfort zone. However, we must create a positive environment for people to feel comfortable and expressive in.

~ Aashree Jain and Ria Devika Bhasin

---

To anyone suffering from social anxiety or bullying, know that you are cared for. Try to talk to your loved ones.

For more information, do check the following sites-

For help- https://www.bestpsychiatristindelhi.com/patient-booklet/social-phobia.html

Information- https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/guide/mental-health-social-anxiety-disorder https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/social-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353561 https://www.helpguide.org/articles/anxiety/social-anxiety-disorder.htm To sign petitions- https://www.change.org/t/anxiety-en-gb Donations- https://thebanyan.org/donate/

You can also email us at theunvoicedopinions@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @theunvoicedopinions for more updates.

DISCLAIMER- This article does not intend to hurt anyone’s personal beliefs or opinions. It is solely to make our opinions public. Enjoy your read and have a great day!