Question
I have social anxiety. Please help me, I’m starting college in a month and if I don’t get anything soon, I’ll fail, I can’t talk at all in classes, much less do presentations. Which doctor should I see?
Answer
It’s understandable that you’re nervous about starting college and having to give presentations. Social anxiety can be a difficult and overwhelming experience, but there are things you can do to manage it and feel more comfortable.
First, it’s important to talk to a mental health professional about your concerns. They can help identify the root causes of your anxiety and provide you with strategies to manage it. There are several different types of mental health professionals who can help with social anxiety, including:
- Psychologists: Psychologists are trained to study mind and behavior. They can provide therapy to understand and manage your anxiety.
- Psychiatrists: Psychiatrists are doctors who specialize in mental health. They can provide therapy and, if necessary, prescribe medication.
- Licensed mental health counselors: Mental health counselors are trained to provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families. They can help you develop coping strategies to manage your anxiety.
It’s important to find a mental health professional you feel comfortable with and can trust. You may need to see several different professionals before you find the right fit. It’s also a good idea to talk to your primary care doctor or school counselor for recommendations on where to find a mental health professional in your area.
In the meantime, here are some things you can do to help manage your social anxiety:
- Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness can help manage anxiety in the moment.
- Set achievable goals: Start small and work your way up to more challenging situations. This can help boost your confidence and make you feel more comfortable.
- Challenge negative thoughts: It is common for people with social anxiety to have negative thoughts about themselves and social situations. Try to identify and challenge these thoughts, replacing them with more realistic and positive thoughts.
- Get support: Talking about your anxiety with a trusted friend, family member or therapist can be helpful. They can offer support and help you feel less alone.
I hope this information is useful. Remember, it’s normal to feel anxious sometimes, but if your anxiety is affecting your daily life, it’s important to seek help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for support.
If you need more support for stress, anxiety, and depression, consider the following solutions:
