Problem: Article: Knowing some of the most common symptoms of SAD will help you to recognize the disorder. People who suffer from SAD have an excessive fear of situations in which they may have to face strangers or be observed and examined by others. These situations include public speaking, presentations, meeting new people, and having social interactions. Someone who has SAD might respond to such a situation by:  experiencing intense anxiety avoiding the situation exhibiting physical symptoms of anxiety, such as blushing, shaking, or vomiting Everyone experiences anxiety sometimes. A new situation or situation involving public speaking, interaction or being observed by others might involve a little anxiety and fear, which is normal. This types of anxiety helps you prepare for the upcoming situation. The problem arises when this fear and anxiety is overwhelming, makes you unable to perform, is irrational, and/or forces you to avoid or escape the situation.  Normal anxiety includes the following: apprehensiveness before a public appearance, speaking or performance; shyness or awkwardness when meeting strangers; or unease when beginning a new conversation or social interaction. Social anxiety includes the following: extremely high anxiety and fear of failure, physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath; negative thoughts regarding the performance; excessive and exaggerated feelings of fright and terror while facing new people; extreme anxiousness and a need to avoid them at any cost; and refusing a social gathering invitation because you are afraid you will be embarrassed or rejected. Some people are at a higher risk of developing SAD due to the experiences, genetics, and personality. If you have any of these risk factors, it does not mean that you will get SAD, but you have a higher risk for developing SAD. If you already have SAD, being aware of your risk factors may help you to understand what might have caused it.   Bullying. Humiliation or childhood trauma such as being bullied can create social phobias and fears. Also, the feeling of not fitting in with peers may lead to social anxiety.  Hereditary factors. Growing up with a parent who showed signs of social phobia as well.  Often when a caregiver struggles in social situation in creates an environment that avoids social events leading to limited development of social skills and avoidant behaviors of their children.  Shyness.  Shyness is related to one’s personality and is not a disorder, but many people who have social anxiety are shy as well. But keep in mind that social anxiety is much more severe than “normal” shyness.  People who are just shy do not suffer the way that people with social anxiety disorder do. Some mental health problems are associated with SAD and others may even be caused or intensified by SAD. It is important to be aware of the other mental health issues that can be confused with SAD or related to SAD.   SAD and Panic Disorder.  Panic disorders refers a person that has a physical reaction to anxiety that can often feel like a heart attack. SAD is different from Panic Disorder but both disorders can coexist. One of the reasons the two disorders get confused is because people with panic disorder often avoid social situations to prevent having a panic attack around people who might see and judge them. People with SAD avoid social situations due fear.   SAD and Depression.  Depression is a common coexisting diagnosis with SAD because people with SAD tend to limit their contact with other people.  This creates a feeling of being alone and can cause or intensify depression.   SAD and Substance Abuse.  There are higher rates of alcoholism and other substance abuse among people with SAD.  Around 20% of people with SAD suffer from alcohol abuse. This could be due to the anxiety reducing effects of alcohol and drugs in social situations.
Summary: Learn the symptoms of SAD. Differentiate between normal anxiety and social anxiety. Consider your risk factors for SAD. Learn the relationship between SAD and other mental health problems.

Problem: Article: Roam around the room and introduce yourself to people that seem fun or interesting. Interacting with others will get you noticed much more than standing near the wall or exit. Repeat someone’s name when you are introduced to them. Not only will it help you remember their name, it will captivate them as well, as people love hearing their own name spoken aloud. For instance, when you are introduced to someone, say “Hi Jason, I’m Sharon. So nice to meet you! How do you know the host, Cindy?” and friendly. Ask questions, smile, and pay attention to what others are saying. Show others that you are actively listening to them by nodding along and replying to their stories. Wait for an appropriate moment to interject, and do your best not to interrupt others while they are speaking. You can also compliment people if you like or appreciate something about them.  For example, if you like the host’s shoes, say something like “Your shoes are gorgeous! I love those colors.” You can also compliment the host's apartment or home by saying something like "I love your place! You did a really good job decorating." Funny people are generally well-liked, so do your best to show your sense of humor. Try cracking a joke, sharing a funny situation you have been in, or using your wit to lighten the mood. Laughs are one of the best ways to attract a crowd, and people will remember you as a fun and funny person they enjoyed being around. Jump in the pool, bust loose on the dance floor like no one's watching, crack a silly joke, or show your wit. Doing something unexpected will make people remember you. Don't overdo it, however; you want to be original and tasteful, not foolish and obnoxious.  When there’s a lull in the general conversation or it seems like the party is getting stale, make your move. Don’t play a practical joke or say something that is likely to offend other guests, such as making fun of another race, ethnic group, or gender. Whether you are caught up in an uncomfortable conversation or are simply ready to head home, don’t just walk away. Say something like “Excuse me,” “I’m going to get another drink,” or “I need to take off now.” Don’t feel as though you need to say goodbye to everyone at the party, but do let your friends and the host know that you’re heading out.
Summary: Mingle with the guests. Be polite Show your sense of humor. Do something unexpected. Excuse yourself when you’re ready.

Problem: Article: You may have been controlling, directing, or criticizing people for so long that you weren't even aware you were doing it. Understanding that this controlling nature is not helpful or healthy is a difficult, but important step. If you're controlling, you have become the problem.  Are you unsure if you're controlling? Think about a situation with an outcome that wasn't what you wanted. If you immediately felt anxious, irritated, and began correcting the outcome, you may be controlling. Many controlling people offer unsolicited advice. Think about how often you give advice. Were you asked to give an opinion or did you just tell the person what to do? These can be specific or vague. Often times instability, fear, and anxiety cause people to micro-manage or attempt to control their surroundings. If you have a handle on what makes you anxious or afraid, your awareness can keep you from controlling others. Look at the issues on the list that are specifically your problems. Think about what's causing those problems and whether you have any control over them. If not, don't let them cause you anxiety. This will help you deal with your stress or anxiety, making you less likely to try managing others. You might try meditation, reading a good book, yoga, running, playing music, or painting. Regardless of what you choose, do something you enjoy that takes your mind off of worrying. If you always seem to nag the same people, stop yourself and think about what you like about them. After all, if they're friends or partners, there must have been something that you initially liked about them. Start seeing the good in these people and stop seeing the flaws. If you've been directing others for a while, you may not even realize that you come across as blunt or impolite. Remember your manners when asking for things! A simple "please" and "thank you" is a good start. Think about when you're asking or commanding someone. If you're in a bad mood at the time, don't let it affect how you're asking. Better yet, wait until you're in a better mood to ask for something.
Summary:
Realize that controlling others is a problem. Make a list of the issues or problems you worry about. Learn to relax. Think positively about others. Consider how you ask for things or direct people.