The Stigma Surrounding Social Anxiety Disorder and Why It's Time to Break the Silence

Being around a lot of people can make us feel overwhelmed once in a while, and give us performance anxiety. But when it happens to a point when you feel extremely uncomfortable in social situations and feel like you’re not in control, it could hint towards the possibility of social anxiety disorder. 

Social Anxiety Disorder is an anxiety disorder characterised by a persistent, severe fear of being in social situations. This could be speaking in public, meeting new people, or participating in group activities. 

Also called social phobia, this is a highly prevalent mental health disorder affecting millions around the globe. People with this condition have a greater tendency to feel anxious, embarrassed, and self-conscious in social situations, which can impact their daily functioning and well-being significantly. 

Why is social anxiety disorder stigmatised? 

Despite how common the condition is, social anxiety disorder remains misunderstood and highly stigmatised. A lot of those diagnosed feel embarrassed or ashamed to even acknowledge their experiences with social phobia, which becomes a barrier to seeking help. This fear of judgement can cause one to feel lonely and isolated, further worsening their symptoms. 

Also Read: 4 Simple Tips to Help You Manage Social Anxiety

One of the major reasons for this stigma is the grave misconception that feeling socially anxious is a personal failing or a sign of weakness. Many believe that social anxiety is as simple as shyness, nervousness, or even introversion, and that ‘getting over it’ or toughening’ up helps. However, it is a legitimate mental health concern that needs professional intervention as it could be rooted in one’s past experiences with social situations or a family dynamic.  

Another cause behind this stigmatised notion is the cultural emphasis on sociability and extroversion. Being confident, outgoing, and sociable is seen as a valuable trait, as opposed to being anxious or introverted which is seen as undesirable. This cultural bias can induce feelings of inadequacy and shame in those with social anxiety disorder to break through the barriers that they end up internalising as the result of these widespread beliefs.   

How does social anxiety disorder affect people? 

Experiencing symptoms of social anxiety disorder can have severe consequences. Those with social phobia undergo significant impairment in academic, social, and occupational aspects of their life. 

They may completely avoid social situations, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. They might experience sweating, trembling, and nausea, further exacerbating their anxiety, and causing a loop of negative emotions. 

Is social anxiety disorder treatable? 

Yes, social anxiety disorder is treatable with the right mode of treatment and support. Medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes such as meditation, exercise and practicing stress management skills are all efficient in improving quality of life and reducing symptoms. 

Also Read: How Does Treatment for Social Anxiety Work?

How do we break the stigma surrounding social anxiety disorder?

Breaking down the stigma surrounding this disorder can begin with people engaging in honest and open discussions about it. This implies challenging the stereotypes and misconceptions that aggravate the stigma, and acknowledging that it is a genuine mental health condition that calls for understanding and empathy. 

One of the many ways to start a dialogue is by sharing personal experiences of recovery and anxiety. By taking a stand, we can help eradicate the isolation and shame attached to this condition, and encourage others to open up and seek professional help. 

Another way to break the stigma is by psychoeducation - sharing accurate information about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of this disorder can help uproot the myths. 

Challenging cultural biases is another helpful route we can take by actively educating those who hold prejudiced and stereotypical perspectives. 

Also Read: The Benefits of Therapy for Social Anxiety

Ultimately, challenging and uprooting the stigma surrounding social anxiety disorder is a collective effort. We need to work collectively to create a culture that not only values but understands the intricacies that make up mental health and well-being. By doing this, we will be able to ensure that those coping with social anxiety disorder receive the treatment and support they need to get better and thrive.