A few weeks ago, we highlighted the difficulty that some people will experience when emerging from quarantine with Agoraphobia. Individuals with some level of Social Anxiety may also struggle to get back into their pre-quarantine routines. Social Anxiety Disorder, also called Social Phobia, is an intense and persistent fear of being evaluated or judged by others. The fear can significantly impact work, school, and day to day activities. It can also be challenging for those with Social Anxiety Disorder to make and keep friends. Here are some common situations people with Social Anxiety Disorder tend to have difficulty with:
- Speaking in public
- Going on a date
- Making eye contact
- Entering rooms
- Using public restrooms
- Going to social gatherings
- Going to school or work
- Eating in front of others
- Starting conversations
Individuals who have Social Anxiety were automatically given permission to avoid many of the above activities during the stay at home orders. They experienced relief with the quarantine which provided an immediate and dramatic decrease in their expectations to engage socially. Jumping back into social situations after months of quarantine can feel overwhelming to someone with Social Anxiety. As we begin to safely socialize more, the following simple tips can help manage the anxiety that will accompany this next transition.