Most people feel at least a little bit apprehensive in social situations.
When social anxiety kicks in:
Ugh! Social anxiety is real and it affects 6-13% of teens and young adults.
These strategies can help.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness techniques can help you stay calm in the face of anxiety.
Yoga
Breathing exercises
Staying present in the moment
Focusing
Apps such as Calm or Headspace
Try this:
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Or this:
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Scenario: Troy's Crush
Troy gets really anxious every time when his crush walks by and is afraid to start a conversation.
Quiz
Which activity might help Troy deal with his social anxiety?
Movement
Aerobic exercise (anything that gets your heart beating) reduces stress.
Pilates, jogging, walking, hiking, or anything that combines movement and breath are great aerobic activities.
Try this:
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Scenario: Dakota's Presentation
Dakota has to do a presentation in front of a group of peers. Anxiety has kicked in days ahead of time.
Quiz
What could Dakota do to help alleviate the stress of the upcoming presentation?
Positive Self-Talk
Perfectionism and fear of being judged often go hand-in-hand with social anxiety.
Rather than worrying and rehearsing how things could go wrong, come up with positive mantras or phrases and repeat or reflect on them daily:
I can do this
I don't have to be perfect
I am strong
Try this:
Scenario: Niki's Worries
Niki worries a lot about what people think, and gets really anxious at social gatherings.
Quiz
What could Niki do to help with these anxieties?
Enlist The Help Of Friends
It can be hard to talk with someone about your social anxiety but friends and family can be there to support you through it.
Friends can help with:
Practicing small talk
Staying by your side at a social gathering
Encouraging you
Scenario: Alex's Interview
Alex has an upcoming interview and is freaking out!
Quiz
How could Alex's friends help?
Take Action
You're not alone in your experience of social anxiety!
Prepare for your next social event with these strategies:
You can do it!
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