Social anxiety symptoms often begin

Social anxiety symptoms often begin during adolescence. It's a developmental process that is characterized by profound psychological changes, especially in terms of how we relate to others. One of the most frustrating aspects of the adolescent years is the tendency for self-focus and a decrease in the amount of focus we have for the feelings and needs of others.

While these changes are fairly universal, those of us who were born with a shy temperament (性格) can carry the adolescent fears, which may never recede, into adulthood. An anxious temperament causes our brains to react forcibly when exposed to the stress of sudden awareness of our peers and gradually we become more and more vulnerable. Our brains label the fear of exposure or embarrassment as highly dangerous. This may result in a(n) vicious circle for many years: excessive self-consciousness and inhibition when we feel we are being observed.

To cope with the problem, I would like to challenge you to strive for increased focus on other people, in place of your excessive focus on yourself. Yes, I know, this is easier said than done. The fear may cause you to feel that you will lose control or make a fool of yourself when you are in the spotlight (聚光灯). But if you begin to build a new response, in reaction to your fears, you will gradually build up a stronger and more positive response. Remember, don't let self-consciousness paralyze you! Be courageous