Social Phobia

We already know that anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions that have affected modern society. In 2017, studies showed that 284 million people suffered from an anxiety disorder. With a global pandemic raging in 2020, we can definitely say that the numbers have only increased. Anxiousness to a certain degree is helpful; it helps us stay alert and take precautions. But it can spiral out of our control and cause us to dread every situation that we face. This anxiety can manifest in many ways, like Panic Disorder or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). One of the most common ways excessive anxiety presents itself is in the form of Social Anxiety Disorder, also known as Social Phobia.

People often think that social anxiety is mostly social awkwardness and shyness. But it is much more intense than that. It is a strong state of unease and a never-ending fear of interacting with people. It causes us to worry excessively about being judged by the people around us. It usually affects all areas of one’s life. People with social anxiety disorder can experience it in different ways. But some common situations that people tend to have trouble with are: Speaking in public, making eye contact, entering crowded rooms, using public restrooms, going to parties, eating in front of other people, going to school or work, etc.

This disorder usually comes on at around 13 years of age.

Traumatic events during childhood, controlling parents, abuse, bullying, or the development of a health condition that draws attention to our appearance. These could be some of the causes for triggering social anxiety. There are various ways in which people react to the disorder; some may stay away from all social contact while some might avoid eye contact.

People with social phobia may develop physical symptoms during extremely stressful situations. These symptoms include rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, dizziness, diarrhea, and breathlessness. Apart from this, social anxiety also causes low self-esteem, negative thoughts, and depression.

A lot of people have been trying to raise awareness about anxiety in recent years. Social anxiety, too, has become a topic that has been widely discussed and talked about. This increase in awareness can be seen in art too. An increasing number of movies that discuss mental health issues are coming up every year. These movies depict characters with mental health illnesses and also reflect the various problems that they face. People who actually suffer from these disorders can relate, and find a sense of comfort and reassurance from these movies.

Some movies and shows which portray the struggles of individuals with social anxiety disorder include:

The Healing Powers of Dude (2020)                                                  

This comedy series follows the story of Noah, an 11-year-old boy with social anxiety disorder, who finds strength and comfort in a dog named Dude when he is about to start middle school.

The King’s Speech (2010)        

"The King's Speech," tells the story of a man compelled to speak to the world with a stammer. King George VI suffers from social anxiety when it comes to speeches and public appearances. The movie shows his journey of coping with his fears and managing the stutter that accompanies all his speeches.

Amelie (2001)                                                              

Amelie gives a positive angle on what it is to live with social anxiety. Even though Amelie stays away from society, she impacts people’s lives in a positive way through her small actions. The story also captures her journey of growing more comfortable with herself.

Punch-Drunk Love (2002)                                                                                  

This one is for all the Adam Sandler lovers! Sandler plays the character of Barry, an extremely self-conscious man, who struggles with anxiety. The film also explores the role of family and upbringing in triggering social anxiety.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless mind (2004)

The movie narrates the story of a socially anxious young man and a woman who is his complete opposite- extroverted and free-spirited. The complex interaction between their contrasting personalities is portrayed in this movie.

Some other popular movies that depict characters with social anxiety are Adaptation (2002), Nerve (2011) and Napoleon Dynamite (2004).

If you feel that you may have Social Anxiety Disorder, do seek help from a trained professional.  Ninety percent of people with an anxiety disorder find at least some relief after seeking treatment. Self-help manuals, meditation, and mindfulness are also some of the ways people cope with social anxiety.