Dixya Poudel

In the times when social distancing is the norm, a feeling of dread keeps looming blaringly. It has certainly affected the social lives of people globally. The gregarious ones missed their social ambience while the quiet ones became even quieter in the lack of social environment. People became attuned to physical distances which they tried to soothe with the help of technology.

Today one can call across countries and continents in a matter of minutes. Yet, there remains a lack that the pandemic has created especially in ensuing lockdowns, curfews as well as travel restrictions. With facial masks on in the public places and a modicum of distance, the current norm has redefined what it means to socialise.

Previously, I used to avoid being amongst people but the pandemic has made me realise that despite the distress that social anxiety presented, facing it was a challenge that allowed me to grow. As a socially anxious person, I have often resented the times when my parents and siblings nudged me to be more social. It is because during events and programmes I struggle with anxiety manifested through shortness of breath, thudding heartbeat, sweaty palms and spiraling thoughts. And I panic days ahead of such programmes.

I have thus become an expert in avoiding people and confining myself to my comfort zones. However, now I comprehend that being in comfort zone is a hindrance to my mental health. As such, social anxiety is a psychological disorder in which people fear being amongst their social spheres. It can lead to feelings of being judged and watched by people. Like most phobias, social anxiety affects work, study and familial life. People with social anxiety try to avoid situations where they have to interact with their peers, colleagues, relations and even strangers.

However, fear isn’t dreadful in itself. It is a sign that the body wants to preserve and protect itself. But when it becomes irrationally debilitating, it must be tackled with coping mechanisms. Such coping mechanisms include breathing exercises, mindfulness, and meditation, grounding techniques and using the wise mind. Likewise, it is necessary to look at the bigger picture and try to observe the fear from a different perspective. Activities such as creating art, listening to music and writing in journals are also useful in combating fears.

For years, I have lived with anxiety and now I feel like it is only a manifestation of my negative beliefs. It has hindered my personal growth, confining me to a restricted life. Yet, if I look from a different perspective, my anxiety has made me more empathetic, perceptive and creative. I have discovered art and writing. I have found like-minded souls through books that I have read. And with time, I have realised that this fear doesn’t have to rule my life which is why nowadays I just carry on despite the anxieties.

It is important to talk about mental health not just for the sake of our own well-being but also to connect with those who face such problems. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest with the ones we love. Likewise, making new friends and growing our social sphere is a part of our well-being. Let’s not permit fears and anxieties to hinder us from living to our full potential.