It's important to remember that everyone's experiences with anxiety can be unique, and seeking professional help from a qualified therapist or counselor is essential to address your specific concerns.
Social anxiety being worse in informal situations can have various underlying reasons:
Higher Expectations from Familiar People: In informal settings, people may expect you to be more relaxed and open, which can increase pressure and trigger anxiety.
Fear of Judgment: When interacting with people you know well, you might fear their judgment or worry about embarrassing yourself in front of them.
Fear of Rejection: Being more vulnerable in informal settings can intensify the fear of rejection or not being accepted by people you know.
Lack of Control: In formal situations, there might be predefined roles or expectations, which can provide a sense of structure and control. Informal settings might be less predictable, leading to increased anxiety.
Perceived Familiarity: Socializing with acquaintances or friends can lead to a heightened sense of self-awareness, as you might think they know more about you and your insecurities.
Overthinking Past Interactions: If you've had negative experiences in the past with people you know, you might ruminate on them, making it harder to interact with them casually.
It's unfortunate that therapy hasn't provided the desired relief so far. Remember that finding the right therapist who specializes in treating social anxiety and with whom you feel comfortable is crucial for progress.
If you haven't already, consider discussing with your therapist the lack of improvement in your condition and explore alternative therapeutic approaches. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often considered the gold standard for treating social anxiety, but other therapeutic methods, such as exposure therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, or medication, could also be beneficial.
Additionally, consider joining support groups or workshops that focus on social anxiety. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide a sense of belonging and encouragement.
Remember that overcoming social anxiety takes time and effort. Don't be too hard on yourself for the past; instead, focus on taking small steps toward improvement in the present and future. If your anxiety is significantly impacting your ability to function and causing prolonged unemployment, it's crucial to continue seeking professional help and support to address this challenge effectively.