5 Tips to Manage Social Anxiety Disorder at Work

Social anxiety disorder takes over your life. It’s especially challenging when you need to interact and communicate with coworkers and managers to get your job done. However, with the right tools, you can take back control so your anxiety doesn’t affect your career.

At Reviv Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Center in Fullerton, California, ourskilled psychiatrist, Dr. Hina Sidhu, takes a holistic approach to mental health, creating personalized mental wellness plans that benefit your body, mind, and spirit. 

We understand how social anxiety disorder affects personal and professional life and want to offer some suggestions on how to manage it at work.

1. Prepare and practice

Social anxiety disorder is a mental health condition that causes paralyzing fear in social situations. You fear harsh judgment from peers, coworkers, and managers and worry you may say something inappropriate.

If your social anxiety makes it challenging to perform your duties at work, practice at home. Rehearse what you want to say, anticipate potential questions, and have answers prepared. Continue your at-home practice until you feel more confident.

2. Learn and use relaxation techniques

If your anxiety creeps up on you while at work, practicing relaxation techniques may help ease the fear and worry. 

Try deep breathing exercises, such as breathing in on a count of four, holding your breath for a count of four, and then breathing out on a count of four. Repeat the process as needed until you feel more calm and focused.

You can also download a meditation app and listen to it on breaks to help relax your mind.

3. Make a coworker connection

We know how difficult it is for people with social anxiety disorder to make friends. However, having someone you feel comfortable with at work can make a significant difference in your anxiety. 

It also gives you an opportunity to practice your communication and networking skills. You may notice more people coming up to you as your communication skills improve and you appear more approachable. You may even learn that they have the same fears as you. 

4. Set goals

Start setting goals at work to help you manage your anxiety while advancing your career. Keep your goals small and manageable. Maybe you start by making small talk with the coworker you feel the most comfortable with. Then, you work your way up to having conversations with coworkers you don’t know as well. 

5. Seek help  

We don’t think you should have to manage your social anxiety disorder all on your own, especially when it’s affecting significant aspects of your life. Your struggles are related to a mental health condition that needs professional help. We can work with you to uncover the source of your fears and help you develop strategies to overcome them.

You may also benefit from psychiatric medications to manage symptoms while we incorporate the strategies.

Don’t let your social anxiety disorder stop you from reaching your career goals. Let us help. Call our office today or schedule an appointment using the online booking button.