Could CBD be the key to managing your social anxiety?
BLOG BY REBEKAH. C
Let's explore the benefits
These days, social anxiety issues are on the rise. The prevalence of social anxiety in younger people has been gradually increasing for a few years now, according to recent studies [1], though reasons for this are still uncertain. Social anxiety levels have been particularly high since the pandemic, as lockdown and isolation forced a rapid transformation in the way we interact with each other. Fortunately, there are methods of managing increasing symptoms of social anxiety. For some time now, CBD products have been gaining attention as a tool for managing stress, anxiety, and even panic attacks. Either used alone or combined synergistically with other forms of treatment, like therapy and meditation, CBD could help you to feel safer in social situations.
The rise of social anxiety in modern society
Even before the pandemic [1], social anxiety issues have been growing increasingly prevalent. Social anxiety is an anxiety disorder that prompts feelings of overwhelming fear in social situations. Symptoms can include everything from worrying about speaking to people, dreading social events, and having low self-esteem. The new digital world we live in can heighten feelings of social anxiety in a range of ways. Today’s anxious individuals are influenced by:
#1 The internet
We’re living in a world of connectivity. People are constantly reading news reports about horrible events happening around the world. Many of us even get alerts sent straight to our phones about criminal activities, making us more wary of other people.
#2 Social media
Social media can help connect us to our friends, but it also puts us on display. Many people compare themselves to the people they see online, which leads to confidence and self-esteem issues. Social media also makes us feel like we’re under scrutiny at all times.
#3 Increased pressure
People know how easy it is for a mistake or poor social interaction to become immortal thanks to the internet. A video or story shared online can last forever, making us all more cautious about what we do and say.
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The rise of social anxiety in modern society
Even before the pandemic [1], social anxiety issues have been growing increasingly prevalent. Social anxiety is an anxiety disorder that prompts feelings of overwhelming fear in social situations. Symptoms can include everything from worrying about speaking to people, dreading social events, and having low self-esteem. The new digital world we live in can heighten feelings of social anxiety in a range of ways. Today’s anxious individuals are influenced by:
#1 The internet
We’re living in a world of connectivity. People are constantly reading news reports about horrible events happening around the world. Many of us even get alerts sent straight to our phones about criminal activities, making us more wary of other people.
#2 Social media
Social media can help connect us to our friends, but it also puts us on display. Many people compare themselves to the people they see online, which leads to confidence and self-esteem issues. Social media also makes us feel like we’re under scrutiny at all times.
#3 Increased pressure
People know how easy it is for a mistake or poor social interaction to become immortal thanks to the internet. A video or story shared online can last forever, making us all more cautious about what we do and say.
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When the pandemic hit, it provided people with existing social anxiety issues with a way to avoid social interactions for a while. While this may have reduced stress levels temporarily, now that we’re making the transition back into the “real world”, many people who usually feel uncomfortable in social situations feel as though they’re “out of practice” and unprepared for what’s next.
Coping with the new social landscape
Though the transition back into a more “social” landscape has been relatively slow for most of us, readjusting to new social norms and expectations is a complex process. Already, introverted employees returning to the office have begun reporting high-stress levels [2], and “burnout” is becoming a significant concern. As we head into 2022, the discomfort of adapting to a “new normal” is likely to continue, and social pressures may feel greater than ever. The new year will see an influx of backlogged weddings, birthday celebrations, and other social events placing significant pressure on people with social anxiety. Some of the best ways to deal with social anxiety include:
#1 Breathing exercises
Controlling your breathing and using deep breathing techniques can help to alleviate anxiety symptoms, such as tension and dizziness.
#2 Progressive muscle relaxation
Actively focusing on allowing your muscles to relax helps to release some of the stress in your body caused by anxiety.
#3 Preparation
Preparing to make yourself as comfortable as possible in social situations can make a big difference. For instance, some people plan to expose themselves to social situations only for a specific amount of time. You can even plan an exit strategy.
#4 Gradual exposure
Starting small with little social events and working your way up to more challenging experiences will be particularly useful in the post-pandemic world. This could be the safer way to re-approach social life too.
#5 Negative thought management
Question negative thoughts like “everyone is looking at you”, or “no-one likes you” mentally, so you can look at the situation from different perspectives.
Does CBD help with social anxiety disorder?
Research into CBD has revealed the substance can effectively alleviate anxiety [3] by interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Though the exact impact of CBD on the brain is still uncertain, research suggests it could be effective at altering serotonin signals.
Serotonin is one of the neurotransmitters in the brain commonly associated with mental health. Poor serotonin levels often lead to depression and anxiety, which is why a common treatment for these conditions is an SSRI medication (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor).
CBD can have similar effects to SSRI medications, without the potential side effects, making it an exciting solution for the future treatment of anxiety. Studies indicate CBD is effective at reducing general symptoms of anxiety [3], as well as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Does CBD help with social anxiety disorder?
Research into CBD has revealed the substance can effectively alleviate anxiety [3] by interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Though the exact impact of CBD on the brain is still uncertain, research suggests it could be effective at altering serotonin signals.
Serotonin is one of the neurotransmitters in the brain commonly associated with mental health. Poor serotonin levels often lead to depression and anxiety, which is why a common treatment for these conditions is an SSRI medication (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor).
CBD can have similar effects to SSRI medications, without the potential side effects, making it an exciting solution for the future treatment of anxiety. Studies indicate CBD is effective at reducing general symptoms of anxiety [3], as well as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Early research into CBD and SAD [4] (Social Anxiety Disorder) also reveals positive results. In one 2011 study, participants were given 400mg of CBD or a placebo. The people who received CBD experienced significantly reduced anxiety levels. You can even use CBD to tackle multiple anxieties at once. For instance, you might use Truth Origins Immunity to relax your mind and promote better immune system protection. It helps to know you’re defended if you still have concerns about the pandemic.
Don’t be afraid to ask for more help with social anxiety...
Though CBD is just one method of dealing with social anxiety issues, it’s an option with very few negative side effects and risks associated with it. Just remember to speak to your doctor if you’re concerned your social anxiety disorder may be too much to handle. You may need to consider additional treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy or counselling.
Follow these helpful Instagram accounts for tips on anxiety:
- @anxiety_wellbeing
- @theanxietyhealer
- @thepsychologymum
References
[1] https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0239133
[2] https://www.forbes.com/sites/irabedzow/2021/05/07/as-employees-are-returning-to-work-now-is-the-time-to-set-up-systems-that-can-prevent-burnout/?sh=722a92302afa
[3] https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety
[4] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0269881110379283