Experiencing social anxiety around everyone, including your parents, can be challenging and distressing. There could be various reasons for this change in your social anxiety:
Generalized Anxiety: Social anxiety can sometimes be a part of a broader generalized anxiety disorder, where feelings of anxiety extend beyond social situations to various aspects of life, including interactions with close family members.
Traumatic Experiences: Past negative experiences, conflicts, or traumas within the family or social environment can lead to increased social anxiety even around familiar people.
Changes in Circumstances: Significant life changes, such as moving to a new place, changes in family dynamics, or personal transitions, can trigger heightened anxiety, even around loved ones.
Cognitive Distortions: Negative thought patterns or cognitive distortions may contribute to feeling anxious around others, including family members. These thoughts could be about how you're perceived, judged, or valued by others.
Co-occurring Conditions: Social anxiety might be exacerbated by other mental health conditions, such as depression or seasonal affective disorder.
Relationship Dynamics: Unresolved conflicts or strained relationships within the family can lead to discomfort and anxiety during interactions.
Changes in Brain Chemistry: Sometimes, fluctuations in brain chemistry can affect mood and anxiety levels, leading to increased social anxiety.
Lack of Social Interaction: If you've been isolated or had limited social interactions for an extended period, it can make social situations more intimidating, even with familiar people.
It's essential to remember that experiencing social anxiety around loved ones is not uncommon and can be treated. Seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, can help you explore the underlying causes and develop coping strategies to manage social anxiety more effectively. Therapy may involve cognitive-behavioral techniques, exposure therapy, and addressing any co-occurring conditions to improve your overall well-being and quality of life. Additionally, maintaining open communication with your parents about your feelings and struggles can also be beneficial in fostering understanding and support within the family.