untamedshrew
01-27-2006, 08:50 PM
I am a 19-year old college student who only rarely experiences blushing or rapid heartbeat - it only happens when I'm really put on the spot, i.e. in front of a class. I am an acting / directing major, so I am able to be very effective on stage, but only as another character.
I guess what I'm asking is whether or not it's really a "clinical" case of social anxiety that affects me if I don't have the commonly desribed "physical" symptoms.
I believe that my social life is drastically affected by my feelings of inferiority and vulnerability to negative judgement. I am constantly worried about whether I look bad or sound stupid, and often avoid social situations for this reason. Worse yet, I find that I am completely unable to discuss the problem with anyone- even close friends and family.
Am I just shy, or do I have social anxiety disorder? Should I seek help or just wait for it to pass (I've waited for quite some time now and thing don't seem to be getting any better). I am so confused! Any help would really be appreciated!
-"Miss Clairee"
I guess what I'm asking is whether or not it's really a "clinical" case of social anxiety that affects me if I don't have the commonly desribed "physical" symptoms.
I believe that my social life is drastically affected by my feelings of inferiority and vulnerability to negative judgement. I am constantly worried about whether I look bad or sound stupid, and often avoid social situations for this reason. Worse yet, I find that I am completely unable to discuss the problem with anyone- even close friends and family.
Am I just shy, or do I have social anxiety disorder? Should I seek help or just wait for it to pass (I've waited for quite some time now and thing don't seem to be getting any better). I am so confused! Any help would really be appreciated!
-"Miss Clairee"