Do I Need Medical Help for Social Anxiety and Introversion?

Regarding your social situation, I would like to know if I need to seek medical assistance?

This is a question regarding social energy and anxiety, and I would like to ask the doctor whether my situation requires medical attention.
I have read a lot of articles but still don't know how to assess my condition, so I am seeking consultation here first.
I am generally perceived as an introverted person, and for me, socializing is something that consumes energy; being alone helps me recharge.
However, I feel that I deplete my energy too quickly and recharge too slowly.
I have looked up various methods online, but the results have not been very effective.
Additionally, the social circle I aspire to is different from my reality; I envy groups of people who can go out, but I find myself more comfortable in smaller social settings.

Moreover, I often feel that my social skills are below average, making it difficult for me to expand on topics during conversations (even though my friends have not mentioned this, it is mainly my family’s perception).
I also tend to feel anxious in large social gatherings; generally, unless I am newly integrated into a social circle, I tend to avoid such situations.
Although I participated in various clubs during my first two years of college, the pandemic and the clubs not meeting my expectations, along with attending with friends, resulted in me not meeting many new people.

The main issue is that I cannot determine whether this is a problem that affects my daily life.
In most social environments, I end up in a small peripheral circle, with about 1-4 friends, but it often takes a long time to establish these connections (I am unsure if my long-standing few friends are due to my niche interests or my personality).
This is an area I wish to change.
I am also unclear about where to seek help if needed; should I go to the university counseling center, a mental health clinic, or a psychological counseling service? Lastly, I appreciate the doctor taking the time to respond amidst their busy schedule!

Zhang Xuanye, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/06

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
At first glance, the issue does not seem to require medical attention.
As the saying goes, "each mountain has its own characteristics," everyone has a unique personality.
Please do not underestimate yourself.
However, it is a good thing that you want to improve your social skills.
You may want to look into resources that enhance these abilities.
Additionally, if you find yourself troubled by this issue regularly, you can utilize the 1925 mental health hotline for online counseling support.

Reply Date: 2023/07/06

More Info

Social anxiety and introversion can significantly impact one's quality of life, and it's commendable that you're seeking to understand your situation better. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of social anxiety and a preference for solitude, which is common among introverted individuals. However, the intensity of your anxiety and the feelings of inadequacy in social situations may warrant professional help.

Understanding Social Anxiety and Introversion
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where one may be judged or scrutinized by others. This can lead to avoidance behaviors, where individuals steer clear of social interactions altogether. On the other hand, introversion is a personality trait where individuals feel more energized by solitary activities than by social interactions. While introverts can enjoy socializing, they may find it draining, needing time alone to recharge.

Your feelings of quickly depleting energy in social situations and struggling with social skills suggest that you may be experiencing more than just typical introversion. If your anxiety is affecting your daily life, relationships, or academic performance, it may be beneficial to seek help.

When to Seek Professional Help
1. Impact on Daily Life: If your social anxiety is causing significant distress or impairment in your daily activities—like avoiding classes, missing social events, or feeling overwhelmed in social settings—it's a sign that professional help could be beneficial.

2. Duration and Intensity: If you've been experiencing these feelings for an extended period (months or years) and they seem to be worsening, it’s important to consult a mental health professional.

3. Coping Strategies: If you've tried self-help strategies and found them ineffective, or if you feel stuck in your progress, a therapist can provide tailored strategies and support.

4. Physical Symptoms: If you experience physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, or nausea in social situations, this could indicate a more severe level of anxiety that may require intervention.

Types of Professional Help
1. University Counseling Services: Many universities offer counseling services that are free or low-cost for students. These services can provide a safe space to discuss your feelings and develop coping strategies.

2. Mental Health Clinics: If your anxiety feels overwhelming, consider visiting a mental health clinic. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and treatment options, including therapy and medication if necessary.

3. Private Therapy: A licensed psychologist or therapist specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you address your social anxiety. CBT is effective for social anxiety as it focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

4. Support Groups: Joining a support group for individuals with social anxiety can provide a sense of community and shared experiences, which can be comforting.

Steps to Consider
- Self-Reflection: Keep a journal of your feelings and experiences in social situations. This can help you identify triggers and patterns in your anxiety.

- Gradual Exposure: Start with small social interactions and gradually increase the complexity of social situations as you become more comfortable.

- Skill Development: Consider engaging in social skills training or workshops that focus on improving communication and social interaction.

- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

Conclusion
It's essential to recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you feel that your social anxiety is affecting your life, reaching out to a professional can provide you with the tools and support needed to navigate your feelings. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and many resources are available to help you thrive socially while respecting your introverted nature.

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