Most of us may get a little nervous when we have to enter into brand new social situations, but if you find that you or your child try to avoid social situations at all costs, this may very well be a sign of social anxiety. Here are the most important signs and symptoms of the disorder, as well as some treatment options available.
Social anxiety is a condition. Some people only experience this when they have to eat in front of other people or engage in public speaking, but other patients who suffer from social anxiety are not able to be in any social situation without starting to panic. This is because these patients feel extremely self-conscious about the way they will behave when they’re in front of others and they are so worried about not what’s being said about them to the point that they don’t have enough confidence in themselves when they are around other people.
If you observe that your child starts to display embarrassment at his or her own actions, even when you are around, or that they seem scared to go to school or other age-appropriate social functions, it may be time to seek professional help. While simply talking to your boy or girl and letting them know there’s nothing to be afraid of may not help completely, you can use this as part of their overall therapy.
Going to a psychiatrist that will allow your child to express his or her feelings may be the way to go. One technique a counselor often apply for younger kids is letting them draw pictures about the times they have felt nervous around other people, and can practice being in ridicule social settings at the counselor’s office in order to make everyday interactions easier.
There is no standard medication for this condition because everyone expresses their nervousness differently. Variations of the social anxiety drug Paxil may be ideal for older children and adults. This medication will help children to remain calm and confident when talking to others. Furthermore, a child dosage of Prozac may prove to be effective as well. Social anxiety in children, as well as some adults, may also be associated with certain types of autism or ADHD.
Another option in addition to talking to your doctor about medication, is alternative remedies available that you can try as well. Vetiver oils can be diffused in your child’s bedroom while they’re sleeping in order to calm the nervous system and make them be in a better mood. Lavender oils can help the body to get rid of impurities and regulate the blood flow.
You should also make sure that you’re getting sufficient vitamins and giving your children the type of nutrition they need. This might also be of value for regular social anxiety. After a few months, you might start to see improvement.