How to Overcome Social Phobia


Social phobia, a kind of disorder wherein people affected tend to become extremely shy around people or social events, can be difficult to manage. When faced with a social gathering, people with social phobia recede to one corner and opt to be alone and isolated. Social phobia or social shyness can affect a person during his or her pre-adolescent to teenage years. This, however, can be banished over time or could carry on into adulthood. This kind of disorder may directly affect a person’s social life. People with social phobias are limited in reaching their full potential at work and in their personal relationships.

  • Learn to see the good in yourself. The first step in overcoming social phobia is through acceptance of one’s own self. Part of being afraid of interacting socially is a lack of confidence. People with social phobias think they are not capable enough in conversing and trying to keep up with other people. These people tend to think negatively, resulting in fear. Love and believe in yourself; all the good results will follow.

  • Feel comfortable around many people. Your first impulse might be to steer away from people once they have you cornered. But instead of avoiding them, learn how to interact with them comfortably. You cannot escape people, especially when you are at work. One way or another, everyone will and should interact with one another. The best thing to do when others approach you is to talk to them in return. It does not have to be a long conversation; brief talks can be a good starting place for getting comfortable conversing with other people.
  • Make people feel comfortable when they are around you. When you are comfortable with other people, they become comfortable with you, too. This is the end result of being socially active. It is easier to create a conversation with someone with whom you are comfortable. This way when they become at ease with you they will not see you as awkward or socially challenged.
  • Practice an “imaginary conversation” when you are alone. You can try doing this at home in the privacy of your own room. Having to pretend to be in a conversation answering questions and throwing back questions in return will improve your conversation skills.
  • Expose yourself to social gatherings. The more you surround yourself with people, the more comfortable you will become. The more you stay away from people, the more you feed your social phobia. If someone invites you to a party, go ahead. If you have a corporate event to attend, feel excited. Events like these will give opportunities to make new friends and finally eliminate social phobias from ruining your life.

Filed Under: Lifestyle & Personality

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About the Author: Alan Kennon lives a very happy life with two kids and a lovely wife. He likes to share his life time experiences with others about how they can improve their lifestyle and personality.

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