The holidays can be a great time of year, but they can also be quite overwhelming and stressful for people who suffer from anxiety. It’s important to learn how to cope with social anxiety during this busy, social season. Just the thought of attending holiday parties, family get-togethers, or other social gatherings can be enough to cause a panic attack. Even if you're able to make it through those events without too much trouble, the constant hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be incredibly draining. If you're struggling to keep your anxiety under control during this time of year, it may be beneficial to find a therapist in Towson, MD to help you find a personal way to cope with social anxiety during this season and the rest of the year. Here are a few tips that may help in the meantime.
Plan Ahead
Plan ahead as much as possible. If you know there's an event coming up that is going to be particularly challenging for you, try to do as much planning and preparation in advance as possible. This may include things like mapping out your route to the event, so you know exactly where you're going. It could also include making a list of conversation starters or even topics to avoid and having a friend or family member on standby in case you need someone to talk to during or after the event.
Strategies
Though these may not cure social anxiety, here are some strategies that may help you through this season. It’s important to learn about yourself, know what triggers you, and how you can get ahead of your triggers. Talking to a therapist can also help you learn more about yourself and what causes your stress and social anxiety. Try calm breathing techniques when you’re in a stressful situation. Examine your thoughts. You may be thinking things like, “What if they don’t like me?” However, you could be thinking, “What if they really like me and we all have a great time?” Start to think realistically about the situation and then try to cultivate positive thoughts about it.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Dealing with anxiety alone can be difficult, consider talking to a professional about it. They can help you develop coping mechanisms and come up with a plan to manage your anxiety during the holidays and beyond.
Find a Therapist in Towson, MD
If you’re looking to find a Therapist in Towson, MD, B'well Counseling Services is a mental health therapy practice offering a full range of therapeutic services including holistic therapy in Towson, MD, and the Greater Baltimore area. We believe in helping people rekindle their curiosity and reconnect to their core selves so that they can truly be well. We value wellness and connection over happiness because we understand that being able to experience the full range of human emotions and experiences is what helps us heal and grow. At B'well, we are dedicated to creating a space for anyone who has ever felt unwelcome because of their identity, orientation, or expression.
B'well Counseling Services offers Telehealth Therapy Services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.