Coping with loneliness as social anxiety self help

It’s not a secret that people suffering from social anxiety are often lonely. They try to avoid social situations that are painful and fearful to them. Therefore they prefer not to go out to parties, celebrate holidays, to enjoy and entertain themselves. It’s better to say they are compelled not to do it. So it’s time for another social anxiety self help.

You should learn to cope with loneliness if you want to cope with your social anxiety. Remember, a human being is still a social creature. So here are several tips suggesting what you can do about your loneliness:

• Think about everyone you know and have ever known. Try contacting them and see what happens next. Always have a list of possible contacts. Think of old friends, too. You must try to come back to the world from your lonely corner and tell the world that you are still a social creature. And you will start to feel better.
  
• If you believe that friends, family and relatives are not an option, then try to get acquainted with people you don't know. Internet with its chat rooms, forums and social services websites is an inexhaustible source of opportunities to meet new interesting people. You can start creating your network of friends, for example, at Myspace.com.
  
• Think if you can be of help to someone else. You will feel much better after making a positive contribution to someone’s life voluntarily. And you won’t feel lonely anymore.
  
• Join a support group. Look around for an anxiety disorder support group. Ask your therapist, check the local newspaper, and contact local hospitals.
  
• Meet people who like to do what you like to do by becoming involved in your hobbies and interests. Look for local classes or groups where you may meet other people.
  
• Find someone to talk about your loneliness. Talking about it may help you explore other issues or come up with unique ways to cope with it.