Feeling Awkward in Social Situations? Here’s What Can Help
When dealing with social anxiety, being around people can be almost unbearable. You might start to feel anxiety symptoms such as blushing, sweating, trembling, palpitations, stammering, and nausea. When these anxiety symptoms are present, it can be tough to follow the groups’ conversation let alone contribute to it! But no worries, all you have to do is remember the abbreviation SOLAR to helps you get though the social situation until you can get back home.
S – Smile
Sometimes you have to fake it till you make it. Even though you are feeling uncomfortable being in the social situation… smile. Not a huge grin or anything, just a slight, small smile. It will make you look friendly and approachable to other people.
O – Open Posture
It can be so tempting to cross your arms or legs (if sitting) when in a social setting. But having a closed posture may tell people you are not listening or involved in the conversation. Having an open posture implies to the group that you are open to hearing what others have to say.
L – Laugh
When social anxiety is present it can be hard to follow the group conversation and you may miss jokes people make. But don’t stress; you don’t have to hear the joke to laugh. Just remember, if the group is laughing… laugh with them. This will make you a part of the social group and signal to the others that you are enjoying their company.
E – Eye Contact
Even if symptoms of social anxiety are affecting your ability to concentrate and participate in the group conversation, it does not mean that you cannot engage in the conversation. Just look at whoever is talking as it conveys that you are engaged and interested in what the person is saying.
R – Relax
This one can be the most difficult. For people dealing with social anxiety it can seem impossible to relax but in doing so other people will feel more comfortable around you. You can try to relax your body as much as possible by taking deep breaths when in social situations.
Meet Jules Smith
Jules Smith, MEd, RCT, CCC, is a Halifax therapist who supports individuals living with anxiety. They offer space to explore personal experiences, understand how anxiety shows up in daily life, and work toward new ways of responding that align with each person’s values and goals.
