Yes, there are people with severe social anxiety who may avoid saying hi or acknowledging someone they know when they walk by. Social anxiety is a common mental health condition characterized by an intense fear of social interactions and a persistent worry about being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social situations.
Individuals with severe social anxiety may experience extreme discomfort and anxiety in everyday social encounters, even with people they are familiar with. They might fear negative evaluation, worry about saying the wrong thing, or feel overwhelmed by the pressure to engage in social interactions. As a result, they might engage in avoidance behaviors, such as looking down or crossing the street to avoid interacting with someone they know.
It's essential to recognize that social anxiety is a legitimate mental health condition, and individuals experiencing it are not simply being rude or unfriendly. They are dealing with significant emotional challenges that impact their ability to interact comfortably in social situations.
If you or someone you know is struggling with severe social anxiety, it's crucial to seek support from a mental health professional. Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy have shown to be effective in helping individuals manage social anxiety and improve their social interactions. Additionally, a supportive and understanding network of friends and family can play a vital role in helping someone with social anxiety feel more at ease in social situations.