Does anyone else struggle with anxiety in social situations?

Hey everyone, I've been noticing that I feel extremely anxious in social situations, both big and small. It's like I'm constantly worrying about what others think of me, and it's really affecting my quality of life. Does anyone have any experience dealing with this kind of anxiety? I could use some advice on coping strategies or ways to overcome it.

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Hi MentalHealthAlly, thanks for your post. You're definitely not alone in experiencing anxiety in social situations. Many people with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) find that their anxiety is triggered by everyday interactions like meeting new people, attending parties, or even ordering food at a restaurant. One helpful coping strategy is to practice deep breathing exercises to help calm your nerves before and during social situations. This can help you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed.

Another thing that might help is to challenge your negative thoughts about social situations. For example, if you're worried about saying something stupid, remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes and that it's okay. It can also be helpful to focus on the present moment rather than getting caught up in your worries about the future or regrets about the past. This can help you feel more engaged and less anxious in social situations.

It's important to remember that overcoming social anxiety takes time and practice. Don't be too hard on yourself if you don't see immediate improvements. Instead, try to focus on making small progress each day. You might also find it helpful to seek support from a therapist who specializes in SAD. They can provide you with evidence-based techniques to help you manage your anxiety and improve your social skills.