As highlighted in the accompanying resource, anxiety among students is a significant and increasingly prevalent issue. Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is particularly common, with a noticeable increase in cases among young people over the past year, partly due to the challenging educational disruptions caused by the pandemic.
However, the pandemic isn’t the only factor contributing to the surge in student anxiety. The widespread use of social media and other digital communication methods has led to students feeling more isolated and less engaged in face-to-face interactions. This isolation hinders the development of essential social skills that are vital for both personal and professional growth. Adding to this issue, social media often exposes students to bullying and other negative interactions, which can intensify social anxiety.
The encouraging news is that social anxiety doesn’t doom a student to a life of underachievement or isolation. The resource provides various strategies for students to manage social anxiety, which can also be beneficial for parents, family members, and others who are concerned.
Understanding what social anxiety is and how it affects individuals is the first step in overcoming it and supporting a friend or child who may be struggling. It’s crucial to realize that almost everyone feels nervous in social situations at times, whether it’s public speaking, attending a gathering with unfamiliar faces, or even participating in online high school classes. However, for those with social anxiety, this fear can become overwhelming, leading to avoidance of activities that they typically enjoy or situations that trigger anxious feelings.
Although social anxiety can feel isolating, it’s important to remember that it can be managed. The main takeaway from this resource is recognizing the anxiety and taking practical steps to address it. Keep in mind that others are usually more focused on their concerns than on you. If large groups make you anxious, consider practicing social skills in smaller, more comfortable settings, gradually building up your confidence.
