To learn more about this topic, we got in touch with Arlin Cuncic of About Social Anxiety. She was kind enough to have a chat with Bored Panda and explain what it's like to experience social anxiety.
"Social anxiety is a strong fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations," Arlin says. "It's more than feeling shy - it can show up as overthinking what you said, avoiding social events, or feeling physical symptoms like a racing heart or blushing. If these reactions happen often and start interfering with your daily life, relationships or work, it could be social anxiety."
So what are some of the best ways to treat social anxiety? "Gradually facing the situations you fear is one of the best ways to reduce social anxiety," Arlin shared. "Tools like CBT techniques, mindfulness, and journaling can also help. It might not disappear completely for everyone, but it can become much more manageable - something that no longer runs your life."
We also asked the expert if there's anything loved ones can do to help someone struggling with social anxiety. "Be patient and supportive without pushing them into situations they're not ready for. Instead of saying, 'just relax' or 'don't worry,' try asking what would make them feel more comfortable," Arlin noted. "Encouragement is helpful - pressure usually isn't. Small, consistent support goes a long way."
"On my website, they can find practical, evidence-informed resources to help with social anxiety," she added. "This includes a free resource library, guided workbooks, and an online masterclass designed to support people step-by-step toward feeling better."
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, support groups might even be able to help those struggling with social anxiety. And while it might be difficult to find others who are willing to openly discuss their mental health issues, pages like Social Anxiety Memes can allow individuals to know that they’re not alone. In fact, there are plenty of other people who feel the same way! There’s no need to suffer in silence.
Another underrated method of combatting social anxiety is using humor to cope. But the Social Anxiety Institute notes on their website that laughter really can be medicine when it comes to social phobia. They first explain that the endorphins we get flooded with when laughing can cancel out the adrenaline and cortisol that people with social anxiety are often feeling the effects of. This can help them stay cool, calm and collected and remind them that they’re not actually in any danger.
Of course, humor can bring about many social benefits as well. Laughter might make a person more comfortable expressing their true feelings, and it can quickly break the tension in any room. At the same time, humor brings people together and strengthens bonds, so laughing with others might make it much easier for socially anxious individuals to make friends.
