Experiencing panic when people talk to you could be linked to various factors, and it's essential to recognize that this reaction is not uncommon. Here are some possible reasons why you might feel this way:
Social Anxiety: Social anxiety is a common condition characterized by a fear of social interactions and situations. People with social anxiety often feel excessively self-conscious and worry about being judged or embarrassed in social settings, which can trigger panic or anxiety when approached by others.
Fear of Rejection or Judgement: If you have experienced rejection or negative judgments in the past, it can create a fear of encountering similar situations again. This fear can lead to panic when people initiate conversations with you, as you might worry about how you'll be perceived.
Low Self-Esteem: Low self-esteem can make you doubt your abilities, worth, or likability. When people talk to you, you might fear saying the wrong things or believe that you won't be interesting or engaging enough, leading to feelings of panic.
Past Traumatic Experiences: Past traumatic experiences, such as bullying, emotional abuse, or other distressing events, can leave lasting emotional imprints. These experiences might make you hypersensitive to interactions with others, resulting in panic.
Communication Difficulties: If you struggle with communication skills, you might feel anxious when engaging in conversations because you fear misunderstandings or being unable to express yourself effectively.
Introversion: As an introvert, you may naturally feel drained or overwhelmed in social situations, leading to a sense of panic when faced with interactions, especially in large or unfamiliar groups.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Panic during social interactions can be a symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), where you experience excessive worry and anxiety about various aspects of life, including social situations.
If you find yourself frequently experiencing panic in social interactions, consider the following steps:
Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and recognize that it's okay to feel anxious or uncomfortable in social situations. Avoid self-criticism and negative self-talk.
Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques: Practice mindfulness and deep breathing exercises to help manage anxiety in the moment.
Gradual Exposure: Gradually expose yourself to social situations to build confidence and desensitize yourself to the triggers that cause panic.
Seek Support: Consider seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, who can help you explore the underlying causes of your panic and develop coping strategies.
Social Skills Training: If communication difficulties contribute to your panic, consider social skills training to improve your confidence in social interactions.
Remember that overcoming social anxiety or panic in social situations may take time, and it's essential to be patient with yourself throughout the process. Seek help if your panic significantly impacts your daily life or well-being.