The Holidays Are Here: Social Phobia Expert Offers Guide for the Socially Perplexed
 

New York, NY (December 11, 2002)— For most people the expected social engagements the holidays offer produce a sense of excitement. However, for those who suffer from social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder (SAD), the idea of a holiday party is a great source of stress. While people diagnosed with SAD may require medication and/or psychotherapy, the average person who shies away from social situations can avail themselves of some techniques experts say are useful for those who may just be “socially perplexed.” Here are some guidelines prepared by Dr. Franklin Schneier, Associate Director of the Anxiety Disorders Clinic at the New York State Psychiatric Institute.

 
• If you’re feeling anxious about a holiday social activity that you want to participate in, DO IT ANYWAY! “It is a well-established principle of biology that when an organism enters a novel environment, initially strong negative reactions diminish over time. This is true for worms, humans jumping into a cool swimming pool, and people anxious about attending a holiday party,” said Dr. Schneier. In addition to reminding yourself of this, it can be helpful to “psych” yourself up ahead of time by thinking about what you would like to get out of the situation.

• Make a plan and stick to it: Make a commitment to achieve just a few very specific goals. For example, “I will go to the party and I’ll start conversations with three people, even if I feel anxious.”


• Stay away from lofty goals like “I will experience no anxiety” or “I will be the life of the party.” Stick to modest goals that when achieved will give you a sense of accomplishment.

• Identify your worst fears and write them down. Challenge them as an outside observer and try to come up with an alternative phrase that will help you focus on your goal.


• Don’t Rely On Alcohol. “While alcohol in moderation can act as a social lubricant,” said Dr. Schneier, “it can be problematic for many people with social anxiety because it interferes with ability to put a coping plan into action, clouds accurate recollections needed to build on prior experiences, and carries risks of dependence and abuse.”



Contact: Dacia Morris
(212) 543-5421
morrisd@pi.cpmc.columbia.edu

 

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