Extroverts and Social Anxiety
Do you love meeting new people? Does a big social event leave you feeling energized and renewed?
If you like meeting new people and enjoy participating in large social events then there is a possibility that you are an extrovert.
Extroversion is a personality trait typically characterized by outgoingness, high energy, and/or talkativeness.
People who are extroverted get a lot of energy from being around people. Unlike those who are introverted.
Can Extroverts Have Social Anxiety?
Social anxiety affects approximately 5% of the world's population.
While it's true that social anxiety might be expected more in introverts, it is still possible for an extrovert to develop this condition as well.
"The easiest way to differentiate between an introvert and an extrovert with social anxiety is that introverts prefer being in their own company, while extroverts with social anxiety have a need for social interaction but their anxiety gets in the way." (simplypsychology.org)
Extroverts are thought to experience social anxiety in different ways than introverts.
1. They feel judged by others
2. They can be shy
3. They want everyone around them to have a good time
4. They feel down when not being social
5. They have a fear of being left out
6. They may cancel plans
The good news is that there are ways to cope with your anxiety as an extrovert.
Here are some of them:
- Communicate your feelings
- Adjust your expectations
- Recognize the limits of your control
- Replace unhelpful thoughts
- Seek help from a professional.
If you find that social anxiety is getting worse or it is significantly interfering with your daily functioning, you should consider getting help from a therapist or other mental health professional.
If you are looking for someone to talk to, feel free to reach out. Our mental health coaches are here to help.
