We all know someone out there, one of our friends who enjoy the company of a few close friends, but rarely are in a social setting where they will meet new people or find themselves in crowded situations. We typically just chalk it all up to them being shy. This is, for the most part, very true and in the simplest form, correct.
However, if you know someone who has a clear problem with dealing with social outtings, suffers from emotional “meltdowns” before having to enter into a room, or simply does whatever they can to avoid going out with you in any social setting, you may want to discuss the possibility of them getting checked out for Social Anxiety Disorder.
All too often, we mistake shyness for just that when the possibility is very real that someone you know could be suffering from this common disorder. Some traits of someone who may actually suffer from social anxity include the following:
Blushing. If the person blushes because someone complimented them, no problems. However, if the person blushes at the mention of being put in a social situation and then begins to sweat, there may in fact be a problem.
Trembling. Having butterflies in the stomach before a big event is normal. Having trembling fear that causes nausea or stammering is a case all its own. When it gets to a point where the fear takes over the event and the evening is ruined due to one’s dread of becoming seen or interacting, the problem of Social Anxiety Disorder becomes so much more.
If you know someone who is a little shy, perhaps approaching them directly about it all can be something that causes alarm. If, however, you think that you may be able to bring the topic up without causing embarrassment or anxiety, do so. This may be the beginning of something huge for a person who suffers from shyness.
By remaining patient, going at a comfortable speed, and providing your support you may help bring someone who suffers silently with this disorder to a new level of confidence.