What is Social Anxiety?

Hi! Great question, and it takes courage to share about that. I'm glad you did! I'm not an expert, but I can give my perspective and some resources for you.

Social anxiety doesn't require a specific reason why you don't want to go out. It's more about the way you feel. If you feel very nervous, panicky, so embarrassed that you want to run away, etc, those could be symptoms to discuss with a therapist. Avoiding social situations to prevent those negative feelings can also be a red flag. However, there is definitely a spectrum to these conditions, since everyone has felt embarrassed or like they don't fit in at some point. The distinction is if those feelings cause you serious distress, physical anxiety or lead to avoidance.

Here is an article from the Mayo Clinic that talks more about social anxiety:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/social-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353561


My heart goes out to you for the way people have treated you. I hear how uncomfortable you are. Maybe working with a therapist can help you to rewrite those negative beliefs and feel more at peace in your body. What do you think? Please know that you're not alone and that we're here to support you. -Melissa, team member