Overcoming Social Anxiety - A Journey Together!
Hey everyone! I hope you're all doing well.
I've been working on overcoming my social anxiety, and have made significant progress in reducing it. I wanted to share my experience and some strategies that have helped me in hopes that they might help you too.
I know many of you here struggle with social anxiety too, I've seen numerous forum posts and group chats on this topic, and it's heartbreaking to see so many people going through this, especially because I've personally felt the profound impact it can have on one's life.
That's why I really wanted to share this post. Feel free to share it with anyone here who might be dealing with social anxiety. My goal is for it to reach as many people as possible and offer support.
Important Note
This post isn't a substitute for professional help, but I hope it can offer some support and guidance to those who, like me, are navigating this journey without professional assistance.
My Experience With Social Anxiety
Initially, I used to find it incredibly daunting to even think about leaving my house or being in public spaces. Even just being watched by people used to be so scary for me. I always avoided going to public places.
But over time, I learned that avoiding situations that made me anxious only reinforced my fear. So, I decided to face my anxiety head-on, step by step.
I began seeing each outing as a chance to work on reducing my social anxiety.
Throughout this journey, I have learned numerous strategies that have helped me cope and grow.
Additionally, gaining awareness, understanding, and consistently reminding myself about various aspects of social anxiety has facilitated my journey and made it more manageable.
Insights And Strategies
I'll be sharing these strategies and insights in the comments section, as listing them all here would make this post overly lengthy. Moreover, since I'm still in the process of overcoming and learning, new insights and tips continue to surface. Thus, I'll share them one by one in the comments. Please keep checking periodically as I will be posting them gradually, whether weekly, daily, or as often as possible.
Sharing And Supporting Each Other
Feel free to share your experience with social anxiety in the comments below and express how it affects you and makes you feel. You can suggest any strategies that have worked for you, whether you developed them yourself or found them elsewhere.
Let's support each other by reading each other's experiences and responding with suggestions and encouraging words.
Together, we can remind each other that we're not alone in this journey.
Daliy Progress
Feel free to share your daily progress too in the comments, detailing what steps you took to overcome social anxiety each day.
It can serve as motivation for others who may currently feel unable to overcome their social anxiety. Sharing your progress can show them that gradual steps and community support can make a difference in their journey.
Your ongoing engagement is greatly appreciated.
Personal Diary
Additionally, you can keep a personal diary to record & track your progress and feelings throughout this journey of overcoming social anxiety. Tracking your journey can offer valuable insights and serve as a supportive resource along the way.
Final Thoughts
I believe overcoming social anxiety alone can be difficult, but together, we can make it significantly easier. While it may take time, consistent efforts within our supportive community can facilitate the journey and remind you that you're not alone. With our big and compassionate cups family, we can and will conquer social anxiety together.
@bianca0504
Hii, I saw you asking for tips on reducing social anxiety in the support room, but by the time I came you had gone from there, so I thought to tag you on this post. I hope it helps you. 💗
Strategy #5
When it comes to managing social anxiety, it’s just fine to start with little changes. You don’t have to volunteer to lead a meeting or strike up a conversation with everyone you meet.
A few ideas to try:
- At the store, skip the self-checkout and challenge yourself to make small talk with the cashier instead.
- Raise your hand in class to ask a question.
- Compliment a classmate’s or co-worker’s outfit.
- Host a small gathering for close friends and loved ones — socializing in your own space can help you feel more comfortable.
Tagging those who commented earlier on this post to ensure you're notified about this new comment:
@Apeatrice @Arie3 @PastaIsVeryUnderrated @Gargi07 @notjustsomeone @daydreammemories @Rizuemu000 @GoldenRuleJG @TU100OT @KindleMissie @notjustsomeone
@reliablebunny23
These are such great tips!😊 I totally agree with you that starting with small, manageable steps can make a big difference. Once you get comfortable with things like making small talk with the cashier or raising your hand in class, hosting a small gathering for friends can become a lot easier✨. It’s amazing how those little victories can build up your confidence over time. Thanks for sharing these helpful strategies lovely Bunny!🌟
@KindleMissie Thank you so much 💗
This one tip is from google tho, but I have also followed this tip, and it worked a lot for me, now I can ask doubts in class, walk on a road alone, & can do a lot more things in public much more easily, because now I know I won't be judged for these things, and I realized and observed this after taking small steps. Fr, small steps really gives you confidence. 💗
@reliablebunny23
It’s so inspiring to see you embracing new challenges and achieving such great things!🌟🎉 *Celebrate your victories🎉🎉🎉* Congratulations, this is truly impressive!✨ Your journey highlights how powerful gradual progress can be, and it’s wonderful to see you being kind to yourself along the way. Way to go, Bunny girl!💖 So proud of you, keep up the amazing work!🌟😊
Hi everyone, I hope you’re all doing well.
I’m tagging you all on this post, because I saw your forum posts on social anxiety, and I wanted to share this post with you.
Tagging some more users :
@sympatheticIdea721 @bearbearr @s0cksz @NickyYayUwU @Lovinlivin8
Tagging some more users from @s0cksz post.
Question #1
What social situation do you find the most difficult to handle, and what have you tried to manage it?
I'd be happy to share what has worked for me if it aligns with your struggles. Others are welcome to chime in with their thoughts, experiences and suggestions too. Let’s learn from each other & find what helps us all.
Tagging some users:
@Apeatrice @Arie3 @PastaIsVeryUnderrated @Gargi07 @notjustsomeone @daydreammemories @Rizuemu000 @GoldenRuleJG @TU100OT @KindleMissie @bianca0504 @imaginativeAcres3354 @anonyHuman933 @tealPapaya5453 @Olivia99000 @amicableZebra1684 @bestLake7495 @Ali155117 @Maeli1012 @Pemm @sofiacarsonfan27 @creativeCoconut9561 @m00nch4ser @fearlessBlueberry6162 @bubblewumble @energeticStrings5999 @sympatheticIdea721 @bearbearr @s0cksz @NickyYayUwU @Lovinlivin8 @anthystruly @helloKiwi9145 @Lenei @Maeeeeebae999 @agreeableMoon262 @Tinywhisper11 @ZinYA0938 @Jewelmoon17 @PurpleHearts7 @Hiiamanonymous @ariseg @Sxm1ra @zac607 @m1CHE11e @royalPiano4520 @akunknown @Insomniacx @peaceseeker03 @wrenrainygardens @understandingChestnut3621 @OhHelloThereImHere @alixsyellows @greenSea1254 @Iamwhoiamwhoami @gbrenna @brightAcres4936 @Melflower @intellectualStrings6074 @brightOak7358 @MaeMae99 @littleNini16
If you prefer not be tagged in future updates or if someone else wants to be included in future tags, just let me know!
@reliablebunny23
Nice question, bunny. Thanks for your post.
Lol, I practically freaks out and starts screaming (maybe not in their presence but right after I run away from them)every single time any one besides my mom and my therapist talk to me.
A lot of people (especially neighbors) has been asking me why I'm not in school and is that baby in my arm my sister and stuff. I keep my month shut and scream silently after they walk off, many people think I'm mentally ill and yk, they gossip 😭
Its a vicious cycle, began by past trauma.
@Apeatrice
Thank you for sharing your experience, Apea.
It sounds incredibly challenging to deal with these interactions, especially when they trigger such strong reactions. It’s tough when past trauma makes these situations feel overwhelming.
Remember, it’s okay to set boundaries and take care of yourself in these moments. You might find grounding techniques helpful, such as focusing on your breath or using sensory exercises to stay present and calm when you start feeling overwhelmed.
Working with your therapist can be really beneficial as they can help you address past trauma and develop coping strategies tailored to your needs. If you can, gradually expose yourself to social situations in a controlled manner with their support.
Be kind to yourself and recognize the progress you’re making, no matter how small.
Small steps make a big difference (:
You're not alone in this. ❤️
@reliablebunny23
Thanks for your warm words🫂
1 type of social situation that makes me freak out is when someone just breaks down and maybe even start crying in front and near me. I’ll be just standing there like an idiot and hopping around them like I’m doing a ritual or something since I don’t know what to do and what to say. It’s genuinely awkward for me and I don’t know if I should give them a hug since I’m not a person who does physical contact with people outside of family often :( it sucks even more if I know the person and/or is friends with that person.
I still don’t know what I should do so normally I just google it on the spot where they can’t see me before approaching them or if they could I just freeze and listen to them before trying my best to say something that could help them feel better. I normally just try to distract them though and I feel kind of guilty for that since I could not actually solve the problem. Somehow it kind of works most of the time? Idk how and why but I am not complaining about it. 😀
p.s. idk if this counts or not lol
@OhHelloThereImHere
Sending strength and hugs (if accepted)
Not physical hugs xD I’m scared of them but virtual hugs are nice 😄
@OhHelloThereImHere
Thank you for sharing your experience, Yt.
It's completely normal to feel unsure in these situations. I feel the same sometimes. And I think most of the people do.
Sometimes, just being present and showing you care can be really comforting. If physical contact isn't your thing, offering a listening ear or kind words is also valuable.
Your effort to help, even if you feel uncertain, is valuable and appreciated.
And I think with time & experience, you might find that you become more comfortable and natural in providing support.
Remember, you don't have to be perfect. 💙
@reliablebunny23
Thanks for making this post bubunn
Okie sooo,I wanted to share my story about struggling with social anxiety.,I've been working really hard to overcome it, and I've made some amazing progress,well not really ,I used to get super nervous just leaving my house or being in public,like I hated stepping out of my house because I knew I'd see people,and seeing people where not my things ..........but I realized that avoiding those situations only made it worse. So little by little I started facing my fears,every time I went out, I saw it as a chance to work on my anxiety.
I've learned some really helpful strategies along the way, and I want to share them with you guys if okie ......Firstly ,I pay attention to my thoughts, especially when I'm in social situations ,like If I start thinking negative stuff, I challenge those thoughts and try to be kinder to myself. I also remind myself of my accomplishments, which helps boost my confidence. Another thing that's helped is taking small steps out of my comfort zone, like chatting with a cashier or participating in class activities,And honestly, remembering that most people are too busy with their own lives to judge me has been an improvement cause I always had that nagging mind that everyone would judge me where ever I went and stuff like that,but I guess not everyone judges people.
I hope these tips even though not much can help some of you guys who might be going through the same thing. Let's support each other and share our own experiences and advice.We're not alone in this, and it's so much easier when we have each other. Can't wait to hear your stories and tips...
@littleNini16
Thanks for sharing your experiences and story, Nini.
It’s interesting to see that we’ve both found similar approaches helpful. It just shows how effective these strategies can be. I’m glad to see others using and finding value in them.
I'm glad you've made progress in reducing your social anxiety. 💗
@reliablebunny23
I find it difficult to give a technical presentation on stage infront of a crowd. Even if I know the technical content, I still become nervous and stammer, and can't say what I initially thought to say, and lose my thoughts and word flow.
@notjustsomeone Thanks for sharing your experience. ❤️
It sounds really challenging to speak in front of a crowd, especially when nerves take over.
One strategy that might help is practicing your presentation multiple times in a low-pressure environment, such as in front of a mirror or with a small, trusted group of friends. This repetition can help you get more comfortable with the content and reduce anxiety over time.
I always feel anxious to talk to people or feel uncomfortable around those who I think are more superior to me in terms of knowledge or coolness. For example, when I talk to people who don't really know English I can speak like an expert but when I talk to someone who I think knows really good English than me then I make many grammar and pronunciation mistakes when talking to them.
When I'm with such people I manage the situation by keeping quiet and speaking only if necessary.
@forcefulWatermelon1803
I get you, ❤️ It's natural to feel more relaxed with those we think we have an edge over, but it’s important to remember that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. No one is judging you as harshly as you might judge yourself.
One approach that can help is to gradually challenge yourself in these situations. Instead of staying quiet, try to speak up just a little more each time, even if it’s just adding a simple comment. It’s okay to make mistakes; that’s how we learn and grow. You might be surprised how understanding others are.
And if it helps, think of conversations as exchanges of ideas rather than tests of knowledge or skill. We're all learning from each other, and your thoughts and opinions are just as valuable.
The thing is, I always regret it when I speak to such people. I end up saying or doing something that embarrasses me. That’s why I avoid it. This has happened many times before.
@forcefulWatermelon1803 I totally get that feeling of regret after speaking—it’s something a lot of us with social anxiety experience. It’s like replaying the conversation in our heads and fixating on what we think went wrong.
But remember, we’re often our own harshest critics, and what feels embarrassing to us may not even be noticed by others.
If you feel embarrassed, try reminding yourself that no one’s perfect and we all have awkward moments. What matters is that you tried! You don’t have to get it right every time to make progress.
You may try telling yourself things like, "It’s okay to make mistakes, I’m learning," or "I don’t have to impress anyone, I just need to be myself."
@reliablebunny23 Love that you shared so many helpful strategies.
Also, I feel like with social anxiety, one can feel like you have to be perfect in your social interactions i.e. confident, funny etc. This sets one up for failure! I think, it's important to remind oneself that you definitely don't need to be perfect, just kind!
Often the people I'm drawn to the most are those that don't try to be perfect and allow you see past the facade.
@Frankie111
Thank you for sharing this.
You’re absolutely right—striving for perfection in social interactions can be overwhelming and unrealistic.
It’s much more important to focus on being kind, genuine, & to just be yourself.
It’s crucial to remember that being yourself and sharing your genuine thoughts and feelings is what truly matters.
Social anxiety can make us feel like being authentic will lead to judgment, but in reality, it’s our unique self that connects us with others.
Your point about being drawn to people who are real and not trying to be perfect is a valuable reminder for all of us.
Thanks for contributing to this discussion. (✿^‿^)
@reliablebunny23 i can't tell you bunny how much proud i am of you ! this much maturity from a 16 year old , ohh gawdd , hands down you are one of the best persons i've ever encountered. and yes, you'll heal girl, YOU WILL. and what makes me even prouder is that this mature fellow is from my country, you're a fighter bunny.
Question #2
What’s a recent step you’ve taken or progress you’ve made in overcoming social anxiety, no matter how small?
Tagging some users:
@Apeatrice @Arie3 @PastaIsVeryUnderrated @Gargi07 @notjustsomeone @daydreammemories @Rizuemu000 @GoldenRuleJG @TU100OT @KindleMissie @bianca0504 @imaginativeAcres3354 @anonyHuman933 @tealPapaya5453 @Olivia99000 @amicableZebra1684 @bestLake7495 @Ali155117 @Maeli1012 @Pemm @sofiacarsonfan27 @creativeCoconut9561 @m00nch4ser @fearlessBlueberry6162 @bubblewumble @energeticStrings5999 @sympatheticIdea721 @bearbearr @s0cksz @NickyYayUwU @Lovinlivin8 @anthystruly @helloKiwi9145 @Lenei @Maeeeeebae999 @agreeableMoon262 @Tinywhisper11 @ZinYA0938 @Jewelmoon17 @PurpleHearts7 @Hiiamanonymous @ariseg @Sxm1ra @zac607 @m1CHE11e @royalPiano4520 @akunknown @Insomniacx @peaceseeker03 @wrenrainygardens @understandingChestnut3621 @OhHelloThereImHere @alixsyellows @greenSea1254 @Iamwhoiamwhoami @gbrenna @brightAcres4936 @Melflower @intellectualStrings6074 @brightOak7358 @MaeMae99 @littleNini16 @Brightbella123 @forcefulWatermelon1803
If you prefer not be tagged in future updates or if someone else wants to be included in future tags, just let me know!
@reliablebunny23
you would be a great listener :
Also prolly talking to my bsfs brother lol
@reliablebunny23
Thanks for the tag Bunny!💖
The recent step that I took was (BTW it was 3 months ago):
Getting involved in conversation with sharing my views and insights while being polite!😊
This was the difficult one but I reminded myself continuously to believed that I can do it and mark this milestone! And guess what, I did it!😃🌟
@reliablebunny23 I went to Germany on a exchange program, and made like 50 friends with germans, Americans, israelis. It was so much easier than making friends with people from my nation. Somehow it's more comfortable to talk with them rather than those who I went with. I got close with them as well and I'm so proud of me
I’ve tried to speak up a little more and also spent time understanding something my friend likes a lot so we could have a common topic we could talk about 😄
Tagging: @ThornyNini
Had to tag you again since I didn’t realize you’d changed your previous username. ❤️
To be honest...I'm just pushing my self into random situations...the really big ones. I don't think...I just do lol. It's helped not to think too much.
Thnx for asking😭
Also wbu?
@Hiiamanonymous That sounds brave! Sometimes not overthinking and just diving into situations can be a great way to overcome social anxiety.
Hey Bunny,
I'm new to this app. After reading your thread I wanted to talk to you about something that's making me worried a lot these days. Is there any way that I can connect to you personally (maybe dm) on this app itself? I really want to talk about this because I don't really have anyone else to go to.
@forcefulWatermelon1803
Hey!! Unfortunately, members can't pm each other. But you can talk about your struggles with social anxiety on this post. You are not alone!❤️
Hello,
I'm new to this app. My previous posts might have been a little straightforward (I don't know how to explain). I am sorry if they felt rude. Bunny I really appreciate your initiative in providing support to people suffering from social anxiety.
I want to share my experience with social anxiety.
I don’t really know when it all started, but I became aware of my feelings when I was in high school. I had symptoms like my mouth becoming dry while talking to some people, my mind going blank, feeling like everyone was staring at me wherever I went, and just feeling scared. I didn’t really understand why I was feeling that way. I thought it was just my personality, like how some people are shy and some are very confident or funny.
Many years later, I found an anonymous app where I shared how I was feeling, and many people replied that I was experiencing social anxiety and that it was treatable. I thought about going to therapy, but it was difficult to convince my mom (because of the stigma related to psychiatrist and counseling). I had to use some tricks, and eventually, I ended up consulting a psychiatrist. The medication worked for me, but my mom told me to discontinue it because it was expensive.
After two years, I went to counseling and therapy sessions again with my pocket money, but soon I couldn't afford it anymore. During my process of overcoming social anxiety, I visited different doctors, but the last one I met introduced me to a counselor. She was really great, and because of her, I was able to reduce my social anxiety by at least 10%. (It might seem like a small percentage, but for me, it’s a lot.) However, I didn’t have the money to continue the therapy sessions. In the future, when I get a job, I'm planning to return to counseling sessions with her.
I forgot to mention that the last doctor I met actually reduced his fees for me because I told him I didn’t have money for therapy and asked the counselor to do the same. May God bless him.
But nowadays, I feel like I'm relapsing into social anxiety because negative thoughts and overthinking are coming back to me. It's really hard to live like this.
@forcefulWatermelon1803
Thank you for sharing your story. It sounds like you've gone through such a tough journey with social anxiety.
Being able to make progress , even if it feels small, is something to be proud about!! ❤️
I'm so glad that you were able to make some progress.
I really admire your determination to keep pushing forward despite these challenges, and it’s heartwarming to hear that there are kind doctors and counselors out there who helped you.
Relapses can feel discouraging, but you’ve already shown so much resilience.
I hope that when you’re ready, you’ll be able to continue with the support you found helpful. Until then, don’t hesitate to lean on this community whenever you need to share or vent.
I wanted to suggest that avoiding social interactions, while it might feel safer in the moment, can increase social anxiety in the long run. Gradually facing these situations at your own pace can really help reduce the anxiety over time. It doesn’t have to be all at once, but even small steps can make a big difference.
And remember, we're all here for you with suggestions, a listening ear, and support whenever you need it. You’re not alone in this.
Thank you for your kind words. You’re right; I need to face social interactions rather than avoid them. Until now, all I’ve done is escape them. It gives me comfort for a while, but when a new situation arises, my anxiety comes back. So, I’ll work on it from now on. I’ll start by taking small steps.
