I would like to share some thoughts about others reacting to person with SAD. I heard one psychologist talking about reactions of others to the withdrown and (quiet) behaviors. At my job I tend to avoid social contact with people unless it's part of my job responsibilities and I don't know how my co-workers enterpret my behavior but I started to think that they might feel like i am rude and put myself above them (which is obviously not the case). at the same time i don't want to create stigma by telling them about my condition, i was always trying to hide my simptoms.
Anyone have thouhts or strategies about how to act and improve understanding taking in consideration that most of those people are possibly not educated about mental health or SAD in particular.
I know trhat i can get some assistance from MH professionals. Still, it's interesting to hear some perspectives from people with same condition.
Thanks.
Thank you for sharing your story and welcome to AnxietyConnection.com.
It must be difficult for you at work and make you feel alone, but it is good that you are willing to reach out. Being able to overcome your social anxiety can help to make your work day more satisfying and enjoyable.
I wouldn't reach out all at once, that may be too overwhelming (and prompt too many questions from your co-workers). I would start with just adding a little small talk during the connections you already have revolving around your work. Maybe a simple, "how is your day going?" can help you to start making personal connections but slowly.
Give yourself credit each time you try to make a personal connection. Be prepared for your co-workers to be surprised or not to respond immediately. After all, this is something they don't normally expect from you and they may be taken aback. Be patient and continue trying, sooner or later your co-workers will see this small talk as normal and you can continue building from there. I tell you this so you remember they are not judging you or thinking bad of you, they are just surprised at your extra effort.
Practice breathing for relaxation before you begin, this may help you to stay calm throughout your conversation or small talk. Remember to start small and as you do you will gain more confidence and be able to take additional steps.
If you work with a therapist, talk to your him or her about what you are doing and that way your therapist can help provide you with ideas as well.
Some additional information:
Social Anxiety Disorder
I hope this helps
Eileen
Thank you Eileen, your comment is very helpful. It seems as a good strategy. I will start trying this strategy and lets see what happens.
Hello Disaster (that sounds weird)
Just a word to say that I dont agree with your point of vue, I use to think the same thing as you ( you cant uderstand you havent been there) I have come to find out that people working in the field do have a scense of what we are living, should it be...sad-gad-ocd etc...I dont think for example that a expert had to be at a point in is life a alcoolic to understand one, granted they dont have the feel of it but I have come to realize thats its not a requirement for them to be able to help.
I think this applies to anxiety disorders to.
Have a good one
Suffolk
Thanks for responding. I was actualy talking about people who suround us in everyday life. I didn't mean psychologists and social workers and other mental health professionals. But you right my title is little to harsh and overgeneralized.
Sorry about that.