SOCIAL ISOLATION & LONELINESS

Photo: Marlise Meilan

Overcoming Avoidance and Anxiety

After experiencing challenging events, it's common to develop avoidance behaviors to prevent sudden, debilitating symptoms. These symptoms may include timidity, shallow breathing, sweating, heart palpitations, and a sense of losing touch with reality. These conditions can disrupt daily routines, leading to avoidance of activities, people, or places.

Common Symptoms of Avoidance and Anxiety:

  • Timidity and shyness in social situations.

  • Physical manifestations like shallow breathing, sweating, and trembling.

  • Rapid heart rate, dizziness, and feelings of unreality.

  • Muscle tension, chest tightness, and fear of losing control.

  • Hypersensitivity to criticism and avoidance of interpersonal interactions.

These symptoms often lead to avoiding situations that may trigger anxiety, seeking safety with a trusted person, or isolating oneself in familiar environments. Therapy at the Meilan Counselling Clinic is designed to help you:

  • Interact with others with reduced fear and anxiety.

  • Develop social skills that strengthen relationships.

  • Build and reinforce a supportive social network.

  • Find a healthy balance between solitude and social interaction.

  • Increase comfort in public settings.

  • Learn effective strategies to manage occasional symptoms and fearful thoughts.

If you're ready to overcome avoidance behaviors and manage anxiety, contact the Meilan Counselling Clinic today. Our compassionate therapists are here to support you in navigating towards a more fulfilling and socially connected life.