Dealing with social anxiety - part 1

The party season opens up a whole host of opportunities to enjoy conversations and build connections with other people, whom you may never have met, if you‘d stayed at home. However, for some it takes courage to join in, have fun and strike up a conversation.

Entering a room where you know few people well and where everyone looks deep in conversation can be very daunting. You may feel the added pressure of being seen to be enjoying yourself while not knowing exactly how to behave because usual business etiquette has gone out the window.

Here are some tips on how to make joining in a little easier:

• Before the party try to relieve tension by going for a walk, shake out your arms or touch your toes. The more tension you can release beforehand, the more relaxed you will feel at the party. 
• In the run up to the event, try to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Make conversation with strangers on the way - perhaps make small talk about the weather with the person sitting next to you on the bus. 
• Before entering the room, remind yourself of the reason you are there as this will not only validate why you are there, but also provide encouragement. 
• Arrive at the party early so you can strike up conversations with other people on their own before the crowds build up. 

For more tips on what you can do upon entering the room, look out for our next blog. If you would like more information about social anxiety or to book an initial session with one of our experienced practitioners then please contact us at your local First Psychology centre.

Edinburgh centre: 0131-668-1440, www.edinburghtherapy.co.uk

Glasgow centre: 0141-404-5411, www.glasgowpsychology.co.uk

Borders centre: 01896-800-400, www.borderspsychology.co.uk