December 20th, 2024
Social anxiety is a disorder that affects more than 15 million Americans each year. This anxiety disorder can make it very difficult for those affected to spend time with others, especially in social situations.
Social anxiety makes people feel anxious or afraid of being judged or ridiculed by other people, lowers self-esteem, makes it hard for people to communicate with others, and gives a general sense of uneasiness for days or weeks leading up to a social event.
With this being said, the holidays tend to be a time that is quite difficult for people who suffer from social anxiety. However, there are things that can be done to help those individuals overcome or better cope with social anxiety. Keep reading to learn tips that will help ease some of the stress and reduce your social anxiety symptoms!
Using these tips can keep the social anxiety under control and take the edge off. Remember that this is something you have control over and there are things you can do to make progress towards coping with this struggle. Learning how to reduce social anxiety and challenge some of your old habits can help you finally view the holidays as a time of joy and happiness!
One of the things that you can do is share a little bit of your anxiety with your closest friends and family. Oftentimes, people with social anxiety tend to hide it very well, so friends and family might not have any idea that this is something that is difficult for you. Expressing some of your concerns about the holidays with people you trust and look to for support can ease some of your stress and tension about having to attend every social gathering you are invited to.
Invite a friend or someone who you feel comfortable with to holiday parties that might be triggering and you would be uncomfortable attending alone. Having someone there will aid you in feeling more relaxed, and it might even allow you to enjoy the party! They might even assist with topics of conversation so you don’t feel like you always have to have something interesting to talk about.
Taking a break from the social gathering or holiday party is something that could benefit you if you are feeling overwhelmed. Taking a quick walk outside to get away from all of it and getting some fresh air can help you regroup and get back to the party feeling refreshed. If going outside is not an option, walking into another room or the bathroom for a few moments alone can help calm your nerves. Remembering that there is always an escape can reduce some anxiety.
A lot of people will end up using alcohol as an excuse to reduce stress. Do not use this as a coping mechanism at your holiday parties or social gatherings. Even though this seems like a quick fix, it is a short-term solution that can lead to a long-term problem. Drinking in moderation is okay, but if you notice yourself having to drink large amounts in order to get through an event, you should seek social anxiety treatment from a professional. There are better ways to cope with social anxiety that are healthier and more beneficial. A mental health professional can help you reach that healthy point.
Lastly, remember that it’s ok to say no! You don’t have to attend every holiday party and event that you are invited to, especially not if it takes a big toll on your mental health. If an event feels overwhelming or you know it will leave you drained, it’s perfectly fine to politely decline.
Saying no doesn’t mean you’re missing out, it does not make you a bad person, nor does it mean you are letting others down; it’s a way of setting healthy boundaries and ensuring you have the time and energy to care for yourself. Whether it’s skipping a party to enjoy a quiet night in or scaling back on commitments, prioritizing your well-being during the holiday season is essential.
For those struggling with intense social anxiety, Clarity Clinic’s PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) and IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) offer structured, comprehensive care tailored to help you regain confidence and manage your anxiety symptoms effectively.
Our programs provide a supportive environment where individuals can:
For added flexibility and convenience, we also offer a Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (Virtual IOP), giving you access to high-quality mental health care from the comfort of your home. This option ensures that individuals across Illinois can receive the support they need without the added stress of commuting or navigating in-person settings.
At Clarity Clinic, we are committed to helping you take the steps toward a life that isn’t ruled by social anxiety. Whether in-person or virtual, you can find the best IOP and PHP program near you to provide you with the tools, resources, and compassionate care you need to thrive.
Request PHP & IOP InformationClarity Clinic is proudly one of the best mental health clinics in Chicago! From online therapy to leading TMS Treatment, our clinics offer the best in mental health care to meet your needs.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, book an appointment with one of our downtown Chicago Loop therapists, licensed psychologists, or psychiatrists. Not located close to the Loop? No problem, we have clinics in River North, Lakeview Belmont, Lakeview Broadway, Evanston, and Arlington Heights too!
Clarity provides personalized anxiety treatment options, including therapy and anxiety medication management, to ensure you receive comprehensive and effective care. We truly make it easy for you to access the right mental health care no matter where you are. Find the best therapy near you or explore online mental health services available throughout Illinois.
Whether you come in person or see an online therapist, we’re committed to supporting your journey to better mental health. Reach out today to find the best anxiety care from compassionate professionals who understand your unique needs.
Find an Anxiety TherapistRelated Readings:
- Social Anxiety at Work Meetings and How to Overcome
- High Functioning Anxiety: A Cover Up
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