By Rashie

How Can Body Dysmorphia Lead to Social Anxiety

It is often observed that people who are suffering from body dysmorphia/ facial dysmorphia are insecure about themselves due to which they also tend to avoid social gatherings/ parties end up hurting their self-esteem and confidence. 

How to navigate body dysmorphia and the fear of social gatherings:  

As we know, the fear of social gatherings, also known as social anxiety, is a common anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations. People with social anxiety may feel extremely self-conscious, leading to avoidance of social events and difficulty forming relationships.

Fear of social gatherings often impacts the quality of life of the individuals and therefore solutions to avoid that should be looked upon. 

• Maintaining a journal and jotting down how you feel about what you are going through might help you to lose the negativity and see things from a better perspective. Reaching out to friends, family, or support groups can provide understanding and encouragement about how you feel. Sharing your experiences with others who have similar challenges can be comforting and empowering.
• If you're comfortable, try gradually exposing yourself to social situations that make you anxious. Start with smaller, low-pressure gatherings and gradually work your way up to larger events. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself throughout this process. Don’t let body dysmorphia hinder your way of life.
• Challenge your negative thoughts, become aware of them, and question their validity. Ask yourself if there is evidence supporting these thoughts or if you're being too critical of yourself.
• Last, but not least, try to engage in activities that promote self-esteem and well-being. Take care of your physical health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and enough sleep. Engaging in activities you enjoy can also boost your mood, as good mental and physical health are important to overcome this scenario. 

Also, remember that you are not defined by how you look but by who you
are!

to know more about Cultivating Mindfulness to Reduce Body Dysmorphia read here 

to know more about Journaling Your Way Through Body Dysmorphia read here 

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