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My project focuses on emotional issues. The impact of the emotional problems on young people is a significant issue. It can profoundly impact the well-being, development and future
prospects of young people. Both psychological and physical development.The main goal of my project is to make people
aware and concerned about the importance of emotional issues. The people target are those affected by the internet, causing anxiety. I used several online communities as a niche to launch my research.

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I researched in detail the effects of emotional problems on people mentally. The anxiety that is increased by ruminant thinking and recalling bad experiences over and over again is explained. As well as the effects on the body organs that correspond to this in Chinese medicine.
I continue to combine the findings of art therapy and abstract artists.I will use abstract art to express emotional illustrations, using abstract techniques to express the effects of emotional problems on the body's organs as well as neurons.
Finally the significance of museums is explored as an important part of a lifelong learning system. Visiting museums can stimulate long-term self-reflection and cognitive outcomes, particularly in terms of social awareness. It was found that
the museum environment played an important role in children's psychological recovery. This study combined the researcher's painting exhibition with group counseling to test whether this combination could play a role in alleviating social anxiety disorder. In other words, the researcher's painting exhibition will
be used as an educational tool in the museum.

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Online Communities: In addition to in-person support groups, there are numerous online communities and forums dedicated to emotional health and anxiety disorders.

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Online communities can be a valuable resource for individuals dealing with emotional health and anxiety disorders. These communities provide a platform for people to connect, share experiences, and offer support to one another.

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The community group I'm targeting is the online community and the anxiety that the internet brings to people.

1. Social Anxiety Support Forum (www.socialanxietysupport.com): This forum provides a supportive online community for individuals dealing with social anxiety. It offers discussion boards, resources, and a space to share experiences and seek support.

2. Social Phobia World (www.socialphobiaworld.com): Social Phobia World is an online forum dedicated to social anxiety and related topics. It provides a platform for individuals to connect, share experiences, and access information about social anxiety.

1. 7 Cups Social Anxiety Community (www.7cups.com): 7 Cups is an online mental health platform that offers a social anxiety community where individuals can connect with trained listeners and peers. It provides an opportunity to discuss social anxiety and related issues in a supportive environment.

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Emotional problems arising from social anxiety

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Emotional problems arising from social anxiety

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In this group project I chose to work on a part that was relevant to the main body of my own project, demonstrating in many ways the importance of emotional issues being discussed.

Thankfully, the group work went very well. Each member of the group was given his or her own task after communication. The group also divided up the work within the group by combining each person's areas of expertise. Weekly meetings were held to communicate and integrate. We created discussion groups and shared documents to see the progress of each member of the group. I think it was efficient and smooth.

Frankly, working in groups is one of the things that makes me nervous. Yes, it's my social anxiety that there will be a lot of different ideas being discussed about one thing. But I have to admit that group work in a good team is incredibly beneficial. One can learn about common things through each person's different analytical perspectives.

Through this project, I have become more aware of the role I play in a team. But the most important thing remains the way we assigned tasks in this project, which I think is a crucial step for the successful completion of this collaboration.

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Poor mental health can lead to physical ailments

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Research shows that mental illness can often manifest as physical symptoms. Depression can show up as headaches, anxiety as gastrointestinal issues, or post-traumatic stress disorder as back pain.

A 2013 study from Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School documented neck soreness as a common symptom of PTSD among Cambodians in America. Researchers suggest that it relates to the mental trauma of people during the genocide being forced to carry heavy loads of dirt on a pole balanced on their necks.

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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

When she was 14 years old, Diana Chao began having migraines. She often felt dizzy as she walked. Sunlight seemed to pierce her skull.

"It felt like shards digging into my eyes," said Chao, now 20 and a sophomore at Princeton University.

After a week of constant pain, her parents took her to an optometrist. That's when they learned she was "swelling from the inside out," Chao said.

She had uveitis, an inflammatory eye disease that can send the pressure inside an eye soaring and render people temporarily blind.

For the next four years, Chao visited ophthalmologists, rheumatologists and many other specialists in Los Angeles to find a cause. Episodes of temporary blindness resurfaced every few months.

"But every single test came back fine," Chao said.

Until one ophthalmologist said she'd seen the condition in several patients with mental illness. That's when it clicked for Chao, who had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Her body might be reacting to her mind.

Research shows that mental illness can often manifest as physical symptoms. Depression can show up as headaches, anxiety as gastrointestinal issues, or post-traumatic stress disorder as back pain.

The phenomenon is especially common among Asian-Americans, studies show. More research is needed to understand why, but psychologists suggest that it may relate to the stigma around mental illness in many Asian cultures that prevents people from discussing it openly, and traditional Eastern views of an interconnected mind and body.

But many clinicians are unaware of these somatic, or physical, symptoms of mental illness among Asian-Americans, leaving a population of more than 21 million underdiagnosed and undertreated.

Chao, a mental health activist and an avid researcher, looked into the connection between uveitis and psychological distress. While there have been cases linking the two since the 1980s, it isn't known whether one causes the other.

Still, Chao finds some solace in thinking there might be an explanation for her uveitis. "It's always been a big question for me," she said.

The idea of physical reactions to psychological problems is not new, said Miwa Yasui, an associate professor at the University of Chicago who studies mental illness in ethnic minorities. "For anxiety, we think of racing heartbeat and sweaty palms."

But it can be more pronounced in some cultures, where expression of emotion is discouraged. "Especially for East Asian cultures," she said, "there's a tendency to tone down talk about feelings-negative or positive."

That was the case for Chao's family, who emigrated from China to Claremont, Calif., when she was in elementary school. Although Chao experienced depression from a young age, she waited years to tell her parents.

Her father had been a traditional healer in China, where the mind and body are often seen as one. Chao said that in her culture, when you say mental illness, "people think there's something wrong with your body." And they treat it by addressing the physical ailment. Therapy or psychiatric medication is reserved for people considered "crazy," she said.

"It's something that comes from a lack of education, not bad intentions," Chao said.

The uveitis diagnosis reinforced her family's beliefs. "They thought I don't actually have mental health problems," she said. "It's just an extension of my physical illness."

For people in any culture, it can sometimes be difficult to verbalize experiences of trauma.

Nary Kith sees this daily in her work with Cambodian refugees in North Philadelphia. Many come to her with complaints of chest pain, headaches and stomach problems. Yet their doctors haven't been able to find a physical cause.

They often have -term, untreated post-traumatic stress disorder from the war and genocide in Cambodia during the 1960s and '70s, said Kith, executive director of the nonprofit Kith's Integrated and Targeted Human Services.

"Having that experience doesn't go away unless you process it," she said.

Kith, who is also Cambodian, was born in a refugee camp in Thailand after her parents fled the war. Her family was forced to move twice more before settling in Philadelphia in 1984.

At first they pushed aside the trauma, focusing instead on finding a home, getting jobs and learning the language-just like many refugees Kith works with today.

"When you finally get to process the trauma years later, it's so overwhelming you can't function," Kith said. "It's going to come out in a physical sense."

A 2013 study from Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School documented neck soreness as a common symptom of PTSD among Cambodians in America. Researchers suggest that it relates to the mental trauma of people during the genocide being forced to carry heavy loads of dirt on a pole balanced on their necks.

"You wouldn't typically find that in an anxiety inventory, but it may be one of the symptoms a person might report," Yasui said.

For years, Chao kept quiet about her mental health struggles. Even when she had thoughts of suicide, she rarely mentioned them at home.

Instead, she wrote letters to an imaginary stranger who she thought would understand her pain. That practice eventually led Chao to start a nonprofit called Letters to Strangers, which works to destigmatize mental illness and expand access to treatment.

Today, she is open about her mental illness, speaking at mental health conferences and TEDxTeen.

She has fewer episodes of uveitis-a trend she attributes to getting better mental health care and feeling "accepted as someone with mental illness."

Among what she considers her most important work is speaking in Chinese cultural centers about recognizing signs of mental illness and seeking care. "Them seeing a Chinese person talking to them about it in Chinese helps the information get across a lot easier," Chao said.

But the responsibility to address this issue shouldn't lie solely with patients, experts say.

Primary-care doctors, often the first point of contact for patients, need to consider psychological causes for symptoms, two Boston-area psychiatrists wrote in Psychiatric Times.

But it's a delicate balance. Doctors shouldn't assume that every Asian-American's physical ailment has a mental cause, said Jesse Suh, a Korean American psychologist based in Philadelphia.

Mental-health clinicians also need to ask about physical symptoms and cultural factors while making a diagnosis, he said.

Lovella Calica has suffered gastrointestinal issues since she was a teenager. In her 20s, she experienced daily stomach pain, nausea, indigestion, and heartburn. Now 37, the Filipino-American has traced it to being sexually abused as a child.

"I was in therapy during all that time, but I didn't talk about stomach issues with my therapist," Calica said. Nor did the therapist ask.

Instead, Calica saw countless doctors in Philadelphia, where she lived for 14 years before moving to Michigan last year. In that time, she was diagnosed with acid reflux. But some symptoms persisted. She addresses them through therapy and medication.

"I still have gas bubbles in my throat," she said. "They sound like frogs."

©2019 Philly.com
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Poor mental health can lead to physical ailments

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When she was 14 years old, Diana Chao began having migraines. She often felt dizzy as she walked. Sunlight seemed to pierce her skull. "It felt like shards digging into my eyes," said Chao, now 20 and a sophomore at Princeton University. After a week of constant pain, her parents took her to an optometrist.

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The person who has abused you the most in your life is yourself.
If someone abuses you more than you abuse yourself, even just a little, you are likely to leave that person. But if someone abuses you even a little bit less than you abuse yourself, you are likely to continue your relationship with that person and tolerate their abuse of you endlessly.

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From the book: Nine or eight out of ten of the pain you create now is some form of non-acceptance and unconscious resistance to 'what is'. Resistance takes the form of criticism, on the level of thought, and on the level of emotion, it takes the form of negative feelings. The intensity of suffering is determined by the degree of your resistance to this moment in the present, and the degree of resistance, in turn, determines the degree to which you identify with the mind. The mind is always trying to do everything it can to deny the present moment, to avoid the present moment. In other words, [the more you identify with your mind, the more you suffer] put another way: the more you are able to respect and accept the present moment, the greater your freedom from suffering and suffering - from the I-am mind. Why does the mind habitually deny or resist the present moment? Because it cannot operate and control in the absence of time, that is, in the absence of past and future.

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Do you really understand what you are hearing?
In modern society, the means of communication are becoming more accessible and relationships are often becoming weaker. Defensive, suspicious, mean-spirited and prejudiced. At every turn, they deteriorate communication, even with the most sincere greetings. People desire to communicate but are afraid to take the initiative, they are pretending to be full of enthusiasm but trying to hide it, they are tired of socialising but find it hard to see how they really feel. Purify your emotions and make communication easy. Only by daring to reverse narrow-mindedness and cowardice, in human nature, can trust be restored and the pathological development of human relationships can be alleviated.

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The pitfalls of social media
Consumerism
Young people's anxiety about the future.

1. People are guided by the manipulation of the internet, like following the direction of a circular rule, following a circular path.
2. People in society want to play the game of chair grabbing, ready to wait for the chance to get to the top
3. The phenomenon of consumerism reigning supreme, people are like trapped in a magnificent jewellery box.
4. Being tied up in the abyss by the opinions of internet articles.
5. Goods choose customers, goods are no longer just for people.
6. Symbolic socialisation, the desire to understand each other, but hiding real emotions through online symbols. No deep quality socialization.
7. Plugged-in relationships, quick to establish and cancel relationships. People who don't fit in are ostracised.
8. The way of thinking determines whether or not one falls into the social abyss; the only person who can really get lost is oneself.
9. Adults make their own choices and choose to wear a different social mask every day.

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The younger generation, baptized by the Internet culture, often likes to summarize and express their emotions in emo.
We are accustomed to compressing our personal emotions into "emo", making it increasingly difficult to express our emotions in a complete and concrete way, and our emotions become homogenised, avoiding our own personal emotional information, so that we cannot find a real outlet for our emotions and thus remain in a vicious circle of negative emotions for a long time, evolving into a mental illness.

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Do you ever feel like you're suffering from "social network anxiety"? You have to open your phone every few minutes to see if there are any new messages, and you have to use retouching software to make sure you are happy with the likes and comments you get after posting your content.

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Due to the rapid development of technology, people are accustomed to efficient and convenient ways of communication and behaviour, but at the same time, this has resulted in a lack of emotions in terms of guttering and behavioural nuances, and a gradual convergence of people's emotions.

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This artist originally from Australia has specialized in creating facilities immersive and works of art from a wide and super eclectic range of materials including sugar, candy and flowers of plastic.

It is striking that his practice incorporates both independent and collaborative processes in various disciplines, which includes installation, painting, mural works and sculpture.

His often short-lived, but meticulously constructed and highly detailed works encompass notions of abundance, dreams utopian and fleeting pleasures.

Much of his inspiration comes from the ideas of paradise and wish-fulfillment described in folktales, mythologies, and film.

Pip & Pop's installations are based on the most popular stories about paradises and imaginary worlds, especially stories about lands made entirely of food, such as Willy Wonka's famous chocolate factory.

It is truly captivating that this artist uses sugar as a creative medium for its visceral qualities of sweetness and satisfaction.

But Tanya Schultz is also interested (and in what way) in color relationships and everything that emerges from them.

Precisely for this reason, the artist investigates in each work how the colors react side by side. With the passage of time, her work seems to have become more and more intense and therefore she has focused on using only vibrant and fluorescent colors that are quite psychedelic.

It definitely takes a very special talent and vision to create work that appeals to both adults and children, and Pip & Pop's work bridges that generation gap, with enchanting visual delights ready to be enjoyed by viewers of all ages. .

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The artist John Yuyi realised that she was in the same situation and, in order to relieve her anxiety, she chose to create artworks inspired by it.
John Yuyi chooses to use these embraced social media symbols directly on her face and body, not only as a way to decompress herself, but also as a way to reflect on some of the starkness.

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-Body Emotions
Photographer Daphne Kladis is a Swedish artist. For her, the most appealing aspect of photography is interactivity, where she brings life and emotion into the picture. Daphne Kladis specialises in expressing emotions through body language and subtle physical movements, so that her close-ups of people are highly contagious and you can directly feel what the photographer is saying. In this work Daphne Kladis uses light and the contours of the body to form simple images that create a style all of their own.

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Art Therapy / Chinese Medicine / Medicine /

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Art Therapy / Chinese Medicine / Medicine /

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Ancient Chinese saying:Disease from the heart.
I want to make people aware of the importance of emotional illness.
Nowadays people are under more and more mental stress and there are more and more people suffering from emotional illnesses. Whether it is social pressure or living in isolation at home during Covid, this has triggered emotional problems in a large number of people and various emotional illnesses have spread throughout modern life. I believe that people of all ages and professions need to release their emotions. However, it is often overlooked that long-term inattention to emotional issues can lead to illness. Studies by the World Health Organisation show that 90% of all illnesses are emotionally related.
On the other hand, many families stock up on medication and health products. However, often these medications create a lot of waste. I interviewed many people around me of different ages about their mindset in buying health supplements. The results showed that most people buy health products for psychological comfort.

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People are guided by the manipulation of the internet, like following the direction of a circular rule, following a circular path.

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Plugged-in relationships, quick to establish and cancel relationships. People who don't fit in are ostracised.

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Symbolic socialisation, the desire to understand each other, but hiding real emotions through online symbols. No deep quality socialization.

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People in society want to play the game of chair grabbing, ready to wait for the chance to get to the top

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Physical Signs of Mental Illness: What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You

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Physical Signs of Mental Illness: What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You

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Studies also show that patients with chronic physical illness are three times as likely to have depression.

You might be thinking: Well, of course they have depression! They have a chronic illness, for goodness sake.

Researchers have taken this into consideration as well. And what they’ve found is that, while chronic illness can contribute to depression, depression can also precede the physical illness.

But it isn’t just depression that can lead to physical symptoms.

When our emotions – like anger and sadness – are not dealt with, the body is adversely affected.

For instance, when patients have excessive anger, stress hormones are released, including cortisol and adrenaline.

These hormones increase a person’s blood pressure. Over time, uncontrolled anger can result in chronic high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and digestive issues.

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The phenomenon of consumerism reigning supreme, people are like trapped in a magnificent jewellery box.

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Overlap between long-term conditions and mental health problems in England

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Overlap between long-term conditions and mental health problems in England

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The connection between mental and physical health

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The connection between mental and physical health

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Physical health problems significantly increase the risk of poor mental health, and vice versa.

Around 30 per cent of all people with a long-term physical health condition also have a mental health problem, most commonly depression/anxiety (1).

Mental health problems can seriously exacerbate physical illness, affecting outcomes and the cost of treatment. The effect of poor mental health on physical illnesses is estimated to cost the NHS at least £8 billion a year (2).

Medically unexplained physical symptoms often have a basis in poor mental health and are estimated to cost the NHS £3 billion each year (3).

People with severe mental illnesses also have significantly higher rates of physical illness – with a dramatic effect on life-expectancy.

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Physical health problems significantly increase the risk of poor mental health, and vice versa.

Around 30 per cent of all people with a long-term physical health condition also have a mental health problem, most commonly depression/anxiety (1).

Mental health problems can seriously exacerbate physical illness, affecting outcomes and the cost of treatment. The effect of poor mental health on physical illnesses is estimated to cost the NHS at least £8 billion a year (2).

Medically unexplained physical symptoms often have a basis in poor mental health and are estimated to cost the NHS £3 billion each year (3).

People with severe mental illnesses also have significantly higher rates of physical illness - with a dramatic effect on life-expectancy.

Overlap between long-term conditions and mental health problems in England

Source: Naylor C, Parsonage M, McDaid D, Knapp M, Fossey M, Galea A (2012). Report. Long-term conditions and mental health. The cost of co- morbidities The King's Fund and Centre for Mental Health

The prevalence of most adult mental health problems has remained roughly constant over the past 20 years. However, there is evidence that child mental health problems have become more common.

Prevalence of mental health problems in England

Source: Adult figures: Green H, McGinnity A, Meltzer H, Ford T, Goodman R (2005). Report. Mental health of children and young people in Great Britain. Crown Copyright. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. Children figures: McManus S, Meltzer H, Brugha T, Bebbington P, Jenkins R (2009). Research paper. Adult Psychiatry Morbidity in England, 2007: Results of a household survey. Leeds: NHS Information Centre.

Prolonged economic instability can be expected to increase demand for mental health services, as there is a close link between unemployment, debt and mental health problems - particularly depression and anxiety (4).

Time trends in prevalence of depression/anxiety disorders in England

Source: Maybin J and Thorlby R (2010). Report. A high performing NHS? A review of progress 1997- 2010 The King's Fund

Many of those with diagnosable mental health problems receive no formal treatment, which raises the question of whether current service models are fit for purpose and whether resourcing is adequate.
Next page: Child health

References

1. Barnett K, Mercer SW, Norbury M, Watt G, Wyke S, Guthrie B (2012). Research paper. Epidemiology of multimorbidity and implications for health care, research, and medical education: a cross-sectional study The Lancet online

2. Naylor C, Parsonage M, McDaid D, Knapp M, Fossey M, Galea A (2012). Report. Long-term conditions and mental health. The cost of co- morbidities The King's Fund and Centre for Mental Health

3. Bermingham et al (2010). Research paper. The cost of somatisation among the working-age population in England for the year 2008-09'. Mental Health in Family Medicine Vol 7, no 2, pp 71-84

4. Bungum T (2012). Research paper. The Impact of Unemployment on Mental and Physical Health, Access to Health Care and Health Risk Behaviors. ISRN Public Health 10.5402/2012/483432

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Physical health problems significantly increase the risk of poor mental health, and vice versa. Here we look at the trends relating to physical and mental health.

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Time trends in prevalence of depression/anxiety disorders in England

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Time trends in prevalence of depression/anxiety disorders in England

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Early adverse life experiences, such as trauma or a history of abuse (for example, child abuse, sexual assault, witnessing violence, etc.)

Experiences related to other ongoing (chronic) medical conditions, such as cancer or diabetes

Biological factors or chemical imbalances in the brain

Use of alcohol or drugs

Having feelings of loneliness or isolation

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Physical Signs of Mental Illness: What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You

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Physical Symptoms of Mental Illness: What You Can Do About Them

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Physical Symptoms of Mental Illness: What You Can Do About Them

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1. Get Plenty of Physical Exercise
2. Eat a Nutrient-Dense Diet
3. Learn to Express Your Feelings in a Healthful Way

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When your back hurts or you get a headache, what do you usually attribute it to?

What about when you get a stomachache, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations?

If you're like most people, you probably think your issue is due to a physical ailment. That might not be completely accurate, though. Why?

It's because what you're experiencing physically could be a result of mental or emotional issues. That's right - we can have physical symptoms of mental illness.

How is this possible? And how can you tell if your symptoms are of physiological or psychological origins?

Mental Health vs. Physical Health - Is There Really a Link?

Isn't it amazing to think that your physical health can have a direct impact on your mental health, and vice versa?

Researchers have been studying the effects of mental health conditions on patients' physical and mental health for decades.

Unfortunately, the link between physical and mental health is not always clear. However, researchers have found that there are intrinsic links between the two.

For example, patients with severe coronary artery obstructions often present with some form of depression.

Studies also show that patients with chronic physical illness are three times as likely to have depression.

You might be thinking: Well, of course they have depression! They have a chronic illness, for goodness sake.

Researchers have taken this into consideration as well. And what they've found is that, while chronic illness can contribute to depression, depression can also precede the physical illness.

But it isn't just depression that can lead to physical symptoms.

When our emotions - like anger and sadness - are not dealt with, the body is adversely affected.

For instance, when patients have excessive anger, stress hormones are released, including cortisol and adrenaline.

These hormones increase a person's blood pressure. Over time, uncontrolled anger can result in chronic high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and digestive issues.

Physical Symptoms of Mental Illness: What You Can Do About Them

Now that you know your physical discomfort may be a direct result of emotional issues or mental illness, what can you do about it?

1. Get Plenty of Physical Exercise
One of the physical signs of mental illness is pain throughout the body. Exercise can help alleviate your discomfort.

You don't need to go full-out with intensive cardio and weight training, though.

Something as simple as going for a walk around town or in the woods can do a world of good, both for your psyche and your body.

Regular exercise can improve your mood and reduce anxiety-inducing stress hormones.

2. Eat a Nutrient-Dense Diet
If you notice physical symptoms of mental illness, one of the contributing factors could be nutritional deficiencies.

A study published in November 2017 showed that nutritional deficiencies are linked to schizophrenia, particularly Vitamin D and folate.

Other studies, reported on by U.S. News & World Reports, explain that certain deficiencies can lead to tiredness, impaired brain function, irritability, and depression.

3. Learn to Express Your Feelings in a Healthful Way
One of the worst things you can do for your health is to keep your emotions bottled up.

Unfortunately, this is something that many people are discouraged against. Since childhood, they've been taught that expressing their anger, fear, or sadness - anything deemed "negative" - is something that should not be done.

Holding our feelings inside, though, is just one way they can end up festering out of control. If we don't talk about them and get them out into the open, eventually they'll blow up. The result could be an emotional breakdown or a physical ailment.

While your family members might not be open to you sharing your feelings right away - or in some cases, ever - that doesn't negate your need to talk about them.

Find a counselor, coach, therapist, doctor, or religious advisor to talk with openly and regularly about how you're feeling.

Proper Diagnosis and Treatment - How Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital Can Help

Sometimes, what we're feeling goes beyond something we can take care of on our own.

If you're dealing with uncontrollable anger, deepening depression, substance abuse, or some other emotional pain, consider getting help from Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital.

Not only can the experienced team of professionals explain the link between physical and mental health, they can help you do something about it.

We offer intensive inpatient and outpatient programs.

Each of these programs is a system that allows us to accurately diagnose mental health issues and treat them successfully.

Both your physical and mental health are important to us and we'll do all we can to get you onto the path of improved health and wellness.

Don't Just Bear Your Pain or Discomfort - Get the Help You Need Right Away

Over the past few years, more people are learning the facts about mental and emotional health conditions. This is reducing the stigma associated with them, but there's still some work around this that needs to be done.

We understand, then, when people are hesitant to get the help they really need or even to simply inquire as to whether they need support or not.

But we urge you to talk to a professional if you're experiencing pain, whether it's physical or emotional.

Pain is your body's way of telling you that something isn't right, that something needs attention.

It's like when the check engine light goes on in your car. What's your first inclination? It's to take your car to a professional to have it evaluated, right?

The same is true of your health. If you experience physical and/or emotional pain or discomfort - get some professional help.

Rest assured that you can get relief. With a little bit of help, you can reduce your pain and improve your physical and mental health.

Are you curious about whether you need professional emotional support? We invite you to review our FAQs page to answer your general questions. But we also welcome you to fill out our contact form to request a consultation.

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Physical Signs of Mental Illness: What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You

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Your physical health can directly impact your mental health and vice versa. If you are stressed out, your body will start to show signs. Studies show that chronic pain can be a factor of depression. Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital has intensive inpatient and outpatient programs to help diagnose and treat mental health issues.

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Social anxiety disorder (social phobia) - Symptoms and causes

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Overview

It's normal to feel nervous in some social situations. For example, going on a date or giving a presentation may cause that feeling of butterflies in your stomach. But in social anxiety disorder, also called social phobia, everyday interactions cause significant anxiety, self-consciousness and embarrassment because you fear being scrutinized or judged negatively by others.

In social anxiety disorder, fear and anxiety lead to avoidance that can disrupt your life. Severe stress can affect your relationships, daily routines, work, school or other activities.

Social anxiety disorder can be a chronic mental health condition, but learning coping skills in psychotherapy and taking medications can help you gain confidence and improve your ability to interact with others.

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Overview

It's normal to feel nervous in some social situations. For example, going on a date or giving a presentation may cause that feeling of butterflies in your stomach. But in social anxiety disorder, also called social phobia, everyday interactions cause significant anxiety, self-consciousness and embarrassment because you fear being scrutinized or judged negatively by others.

In social anxiety disorder, fear and anxiety lead to avoidance that can disrupt your life. Severe stress can affect your relationships, daily routines, work, school or other activities.

Social anxiety disorder can be a chronic mental health condition, but learning coping skills in psychotherapy and taking medications can help you gain confidence and improve your ability to interact with others.
Social anxiety disorder care at Mayo Clinic
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Symptoms

Feelings of shyness or discomfort in certain situations aren't necessarily signs of social anxiety disorder, particularly in children. Comfort levels in social situations vary, depending on personality traits and life experiences. Some people are naturally reserved and others are more outgoing.

In contrast to everyday nervousness, social anxiety disorder includes fear, anxiety and avoidance that interfere with relationships, daily routines, work, school or other activities. Social anxiety disorder typically begins in the early to mid-teens, though it can sometimes start in younger children or in adults.

Emotional and behavioral symptoms

Signs and symptoms of social anxiety disorder can include constant:

Fear of situations in which you may be judged negatively

Worry about embarrassing or humiliating yourself

Intense fear of interacting or talking with strangers

Fear that others will notice that you look anxious

Fear of physical symptoms that may cause you embarrassment, such as blushing, sweating, trembling or having a shaky voice

Avoidance of doing things or speaking to people out of fear of embarrassment

Avoidance of situations where you might be the center of attention

Anxiety in anticipation of a feared activity or event

Intense fear or anxiety during social situations

Analysis of your performance and identification of flaws in your interactions after a social situation

Expectation of the worst possible consequences from a negative experience during a social situation

For children, anxiety about interacting with adults or peers may be shown by crying, having temper tantrums, clinging to parents or refusing to speak in social situations.

Performance type of social anxiety disorder is when you experience intense fear and anxiety during speaking or performing in public but not in other types of more general social situations.

Physical symptoms

Physical signs and symptoms can sometimes accompany social anxiety disorder and may include:

Blushing

Fast heartbeat

Trembling

Sweating

Upset stomach or nausea

Trouble catching your breath

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Feeling that your mind has gone blank

Muscle tension

Avoiding common social situations

Common, everyday experiences may be hard to endure when you have social anxiety disorder, including:

Interacting with unfamiliar people or strangers

Attending parties or social gatherings

Going to work or school

Starting conversations

Making eye contact

Dating

Entering a room in which people are already seated

Returning items to a store

Eating in front of others

Using a public restroom

Social anxiety disorder symptoms can change over time. They may flare up if you're facing a lot of changes, stress or demands in your life. Although avoiding situations that produce anxiety may make you feel better in the short term, your anxiety is likely to continue over the long term if you don't get treatment.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor or a mental health professional if you fear and avoid normal social situations because they cause embarrassment, worry or panic.

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Causes

Like many other mental health conditions, social anxiety disorder likely arises from a complex interaction of biological and environmental factors. Possible causes include:

Inherited traits. Anxiety disorders tend to run in families. However, it isn't entirely clear how much of this may be due to genetics and how much is due to learned behavior.

Brain structure. A structure in the brain called the amygdala (uh-MIG-duh-luh) may play a role in controlling the fear response. People who have an overactive amygdala may have a heightened fear response, causing increased anxiety in social situations.

Environment. Social anxiety disorder may be a learned behavior - some people may develop significant anxiety after an unpleasant or embarrassing social situation. Also, there may be an association between social anxiety disorder and parents who either model anxious behavior in social situations or are more controlling or overprotective of their children.

Risk factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing social anxiety disorder, including:

Family history. You're more likely to develop social anxiety disorder if your biological parents or siblings have the condition.

Negative experiences. Children who experience teasing, bullying, rejection, ridicule or humiliation may be more prone to social anxiety disorder. In addition, other negative events in life, such as family conflict, trauma or abuse, may be associated with this disorder.

Temperament. Children who are shy, timid, withdrawn or restrained when facing new situations or people may be at greater risk.

New social or work demands. Social anxiety disorder symptoms typically start in the teenage years, but meeting new people, giving a speech in public or making an important work presentation may trigger symptoms for the first time.

Having an appearance or condition that draws attention. For example, facial disfigurement, stuttering or tremors due to Parkinson's disease can increase feelings of self-consciousness and may trigger social anxiety disorder in some people.

Complications

Left untreated, social anxiety disorder can control your life. Anxieties can interfere with work, school, relationships or enjoyment of life. This disorder can cause:

Low self-esteem

Trouble being assertive

Negative self-talk

Hypersensitivity to criticism

Poor social skills

Isolation and difficult social relationships

Low academic and employment achievement

Substance abuse, such as drinking too much alcohol

Suicide or suicide attempts

Other anxiety disorders and certain other mental health disorders, particularly major depressive disorder and substance abuse problems, often occur with social anxiety disorder.

Prevention

There's no way to predict what will cause someone to develop an anxiety disorder, but you can take steps to reduce the impact of symptoms if you're anxious:

Get help early. Anxiety, like many other mental health conditions, can be harder to treat if you wait.

Keep a journal. Keeping track of your personal life can help you and your mental health professional identify what's causing you stress and what seems to help you feel better.

Set priorities in your life. You can reduce anxiety by carefully managing your time and energy. Make sure that you spend time doing things you enjoy.

Avoid unhealthy substance use. Alcohol and drug use and even caffeine or nicotine use can cause or worsen anxiety. If you're addicted to any of these substances, quitting can make you anxious. If you can't quit on your own, see your health care provider or find a treatment program or support group to help you.

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Social anxiety disorder (social phobia) - Symptoms and causes

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Learn more on this disorder where everyday interactions cause significant worry and self-consciousness because you fear being judged negatively by others.

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What Is Social Anxiety Disorder? 19 Symptoms, Causes, Myths, FAQs

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Takeaway

Social phobia is one of the most common but widely underdiagnosed anxiety disorders. If not treated, it can interfere with your quality of life, career, and relationships. Early diagnosis and effective treatment (involving therapies, medication, self-help strategies, etc.) can significantly help manage and overcome the effects of social anxiety disorder.

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Social anxiety disorder is a mental disorder that leads to severe anxiety, fear, and distress in social situations. This condition can significantly impair your ability to function in daily life.

Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is associated with severe anxiety and fear in social settings, such as public gatherings, meetings, social events, public performances, etc . People suffering from social phobia are always apprehensive about negative scrutiny and public humiliation.

They may be wary of attending social events, forming new relationships, appearing for a job interview, eating in front of others, etc. Social phobia can manifest itself as anxious and fearful behavior in social settings and can also involve a number of physical and mental symptoms, such as blushing, sweating, and shaking.

People with social anxiety disorder tend to have unrealistic standards for their own social behavior and underestimate their ability to cope with social situations .

People living with social anxiety disorders often resort to "safety behaviors" such as avoiding certain situations or focusing excessive attention on their minute movements in order to deal with the stress. They also have a tendency to ruminate about a single event or interaction and scrutinize every aspect of it.

The worldwide prevalence of social anxiety disorder is 5 to 10% and the lifetime prevalence is around 8.4% to 15%. Women are more commonly affected than men.

Shyness Vs. Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is often confused with shyness. However, a person who is shy in certain social situations might gradually be able to overcome the feeling on their own. On the other hand, social anxiety disorder is a more severe condition that affects a person's quality of life and well-being on a regular basis and usually requires professional help.

Case Example
Jisha, a 28 year old copywriter, was plagued with the feeling that everyone was constantly judging her. She always wore a baseball cap or a hoodie in public, claiming that it made her feel safe from the scrutinizing gaze of people around.

Ever since childhood, Jisha had been labeled as the "shy" girl who struggled to make friends. Even as an adult, she often had a hard time conversing with people, and maintaining eye contact.

If she so much as had to make a phone call to place an order, her heart would start racing and she would pace for a good fifteen minutes before getting around to it.

She had a habit of going over every single conversation in her head, repeatedly analyzing everything she had said or done, and criticizing herself for not being confident enough.

Jisha's fear of social interactions regularly slowed her down and caused her an immense amount of distress. Her acquaintances and colleagues often misperceived her behavior as arrogance or laziness, which increased her sense of guilt and loneliness.

However, Jisha was actually suffering from the debilitating condition of social anxiety disorder and had little control over her symptoms.
Social anxiety disorder symptoms involve physiological, behavioral, and cognitive signs of severe anxiety and fear. These have been discussed below:

A. Physiological Symptoms

Social phobia induces a "fight-or-flight" response in its sufferers and this gets manifested in a number of physiological responses . These may include:

1. Blushing

2. Excessive sweating

3. Palpitations

4. Nausea

5. Shaking or trembling

6. Breathing problems

7. Fainting

8. Inability to walk properly

9. Crying

10. Disjointed speech

B. Behavioral Symptoms

Severe anxiety disorder causes people to be overtly self-conscious in their personal perceptions and assessment. They are burdened by dreads of scrutiny, criticism, judgment, and underperformance in social contexts. Because of this, they may display the following behavioral symptoms :

1. Avoidance behavior (such as avoiding eye contact, physical contact, making conversation, etc.)

2. Awkward self-presentation

3. Withdrawing from social situations

4. Insecure, nervous, and unconfident behavior, etc.

C. Cognitive Symptoms

Social anxiety also involves a number of cognitive symptoms , which include the following:

1. Unrealistic social standards

2. Inability to select attainable social goals

3. Perception of self as a social object

4. Anticipation of negative evaluation from others

5. Negative interpretations of neutral events

Social phobia has been examined from multiple perspectives-ranging from psychiatry and neuroscience to sociology and cultural studies. However, research is yet to uncover its exact causes. Some risk factors believed to influence the onset of social anxiety disorder are discussed below:

1. Biological Causes

Social anxiety disorder can be a result of genetic causes or dysregulation within the brain.

A. Heredity

Like any other behavioral disorder, social anxiety disorder shows great heritability . Research suggests that a person is at a two- or three-fold greater risk of having social anxiety disorder if a first-degree relative already has it.

B. Brain chemistry

Research has attributed the pathological causes of social phobia to neurotransmitters (such as dopamine, glutamate, serotonin) and increased activity in the limbic regions of the brain.

A 2007 meta-analysis suggests that individuals with a social anxiety disorder may have hyperactivation in the amygdala, the dorsal anterior cingulate, and insula areas-which are frequently associated with fear and negative emotional processing.

2. Psychosocial Causes

There are several psychosocial and developmental risk factors that may make a person more prone to social phobia. A 2007 study states that people who are inclined to inhibited shyness, unexpected bursts of emotions, lack of internal control, avoidant behavior, and interpersonal sensitivity are more susceptible to social anxiety.

Some other factors that might play a role in the development of social phobia are:

A. Temperament

Temperament is the early occurrence of traits or range of characteristics that go on to form a personality. Temperament research suggests that people who had a higher level of behavioral inhibition (BI) as children are more likely to eventually develop social phobia.

B. Childhood environment

The degree to which a child is exposed to social situations can be a crucial factor in determining whether they will grow up to be socially anxious. Restricted exposure can prevent a person from learning appropriate social skills. Moreover, if a child grows up around people who are also socially anxious, it is more likely that they will also learn the same behavior.

C. Parenting style

It has been seen that overprotection on the part of a parent can lead to social withdrawal in children. This can often develop into a social anxiety disorder. "Helicopter parenting" , a kind of parenting that involves a high level of involvement on the part of the parents, has also been found to be associated with social anxiety.

D. Traumatic experiences

First-hand negative social experiences involving public criticism and humiliation are potential triggers for social phobia. Some experiences that can lead to its onset include:

Bullying and harassment

Peer and parental pressure on children and adolescents

Emotional abuse involves intimidation, gaslighting, competitive berating, negative appraisal, etc.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) 5, social anxiety disorder can be diagnosed if a person has been experiencing debilitating fear in one or more social situations where they are exposed to "possible scrutiny" by other people, for a period of more than 6 months. The fear experienced should be out of proportion to the threat.

Mental health practitioners may examine self-reported data, patient history, symptoms, and other behavioral patterns to arrive at a definite diagnosis. Certain assessments may also be used for the diagnosis of social anxiety disorder such as:

Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN)

Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS)

Liebowitz Self-Rated Disability Scale

Brief Social Phobia Scale (BSPS)

Social Phobia Safety Behaviors Scale

Self Statements During Public Speaking Scale, etc.

Read More About CBT Here
Treatments for social anxiety disorder can include therapy or medication. Some of the most common treatment approaches are mentioned below:

1. Psychotherapy

Studies have found various psychotherapy treatment approaches to be effective for social anxiety disorder. Some of them have been elaborated on below.

I. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is currently considered the "gold standard" psychological treatment approach for social phobia. Studies show that CBT induces healthy self-focused attention and self-perception, and leads to reduction of social withdrawal symptoms .

About 56% to 95% of patients suffering from social anxiety disorder find respite by CBT .

II. Group psychotherapy

Group psychotherapy has been proven to be quite effective for treating social anxiety disorder. In fact, cognitive behavioral group therapy for social phobia (CBGT) is the most validated approach to treating severe social phobia.

It is both an educational and supportive therapy. It enhances social skills while also addressing problems faced in socialization. Social self-appraisal therapy is another form of group therapy that focuses on addressing issues of social skills and self-perceptions via discussions, video feedback, audio feedback, mirror exposure,etc. .

III. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) enables people to practice self-acceptance and meaningful communication . In a 2014 study , it was found that ACT predicted better outcomes post-treatment in over 39% of patients suffering from social anxiety disorder.

2. Medication

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) , a second-generation antidepressant is the most preferred form of medical treatment for social anxiety disorder . Some commonly used SSRIs are:

Paroxetine

Sertraline

Escitalopram

Venlafaxine XR

Fluvoxamine CR (luvox CR) .

Research shows that SSRIs help reduce general anxiety , hostility, and frenzied behavior.

In most cases, a combination of psychotherapy and SSRIs is used to treat severe social anxiety.

Social anxiety disorder is an underdiagnosed anxiety disorder, a fact that can be attributed to the misunderstanding surrounding it. Some of the myths regarding social phobia have been countered below.

1. Social anxiety is same as introversion
Read More About Panic Disorder Here
Social anxiety disorder is sometimes confused with shyness or introversion. However, it should be noted that while introversion is simply a normal personality type, social anxiety disorder is a more severe condition that warrants treatment.

2. Social phobia is the same as other phobias

Social anxiety disorder, though synonymously termed as "social phobia", should be differentiated from specific phobias like claustrophobia, hydrophobia, and the like. According to a 2003 study , social phobia is different from other phobic disorders by the characteristic age of onset in the mid-teens and greater ratio of women to men.

3. Social phobia and anxiety disorders are same

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) prescribes specific criteria for the diagnosis of social anxiety disorder which is different from other disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder. [ Read more]

Social phobia may sometimes manifest in a panic attack, which is a key symptom of panic disorders . However, symptoms of social phobia can be differentiated by their confinement to situational encounters .

4. The "fear" in social anxiety is very common

The most common symptom of social anxiety disorder is extreme and persistent fear of embarrassment and humiliation while participating in social activities. And, this fear in social anxiety is very distinct.

This fear often results in self-defeating thoughts, ambiguous actions, cognitive distortions, and awkward self-presentation. One must be careful that this fear is not the effect of substance abuse or a different medical or psychological condition.

Coping Tips

Everyday life can be quite exhausting if you have social anxiety. It can often lead to other mental disorders such as depression and greatly affect your well-being.

Some self-help strategies for social anxiety that can go hand-in-hand with professional treatment have been mentioned below.

1. Recognize your symptoms and triggers

2. Practice mindfulness

3. Try participating in small support groups, like clubs, travel groups, etc.

4. Practice small-scale networking to broaden social horizons at a healthy and acceptable pace

5. Engage in stress management techniques, such as yoga , meditation , deep breathing exercises, muscle relaxation techniques, , etc.

6. Indulge in leisure activities like journaling, taking long walks, making art, or doing any other hobbies that may give you pleasure.

7. Be patient with yourself throughout the process of recovery.

Social phobia is one of the most common but widely underdiagnosed anxiety disorders. If not treated, it can interfere with your quality of life, career, and relationships. Early diagnosis and effective treatment (involving therapies, medication, self-help strategies, etc.) can significantly help manage and overcome the effects of social anxiety disorder.

1. Social anxiety or social phobia is the fear linked to being in social settings.

2. Its causes can range from genetic to psychological, biological, and socio-cultural factors.

3. Severe social anxiety manifests in negative emotions, avoidance and safety behaviors, disjointed speech, etc.

4. The symptoms of social anxiety involve blushing, palpitation, excessive sweating, breathing problems, fainting, etc.

5. If untreated, social phobia can lead to a number of severe physical and mental health conditions.

6. Social anxiety disorder also has negative effects on a person's quality of life, reputation, career, and relationships.

7. The treatment for social anxiety includes both psychotherapies and medication.

8. Social phobia can be managed better with healthy coping strategies.

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What Is Social Anxiety Disorder? 19 Symptoms, Causes, Myths, FAQs

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Social anxiety disorder is a mental disorder that leads to severe anxiety, fear, and distress in social situations. This condition can significantly impair your ability to function in daily life. Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is associated with severe anxiety and fear in social settings, such as public gatherings, meetings, social events, public performances, etc .

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Social Anxiety Disorder: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

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According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), around 15 million American adults have social anxiety disorder. It often starts during the teenage years.

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What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social anxiety disorder, sometimes referred to as social phobia, is a type of anxiety disorder that causes extreme fear in social settings. People with this disorder have trouble talking to people, meeting new people, and attending social gatherings. They fear being judged or scrutinized by others. They may understand that their fears are irrational or unreasonable, but feel powerless to overcome them.

Social anxiety is different from shyness. Shyness is usually short-term and doesn't disrupt one's life. Social anxiety is persistent and debilitating. It can affect one's ability to:

work

attend school

develop close relationships with people outside of their family

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) approximately 15 million American adults have social anxiety disorder. Symptoms of this disorder may start around the age of 13.

Social interaction may cause the following physical symptoms:

blushing

nausea

excessive sweating

trembling or shaking

difficulty speaking

dizziness or lightheadedness

rapid heart rate

Psychological symptoms may include:

worrying intensely about social situations

worrying for days or weeks before an event

avoiding social situations or trying to blend into the background if you must attend

worrying about embarrassing yourself in a social situation

worrying that other people will notice you are stressed or nervous

needing alcohol to face a social situation

missing school or work because of anxiety

It is normal to sometimes feel anxious. However, when you have social phobia, you have a constant fear of being judged by others or humiliated in front of them. You may avoid all social situations, including:

asking a question

job interviews

shopping

using public restrooms

talking on the phone

eating in public

Symptoms of social anxiety may not occur in all situations. You can have limited or selective anxiety. For example, symptoms may only occur when you're eating in front of people or talking to strangers. Symptoms can occur in all social settings if you have an extreme case.

The exact cause of social phobia is unknown. However, current research supports the idea that it is caused by a combination of environmental factors and genetics. Negative experiences also may contribute to this disorder, including:

Physical abnormalities such as a serotonin imbalance may contribute to this condition. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that helps regulate mood. An overactive amygdala (a structure in the brain that controls fear response and feelings or thoughts of anxiety) may also cause these disorders.

Anxiety disorders can run in families. However, researchers aren't sure if they're actually linked to genetic factors. For example, a child might develop an anxiety disorder by learning the behavior of one of their parents who has an anxiety disorder. Children can also develop anxiety disorders as a result of being raised in controlling or overprotective environments.

There is no medical test to check for social anxiety disorder. Your healthcare provider will diagnose social phobia from a description of your symptoms. They can also diagnose social phobia after examining certain behavioral patterns.

During your appointment, your healthcare provider will ask you to explain your symptoms. They will also ask you to talk about situations that cause your symptoms. The criteria for social anxiety disorder includes:

a constant fear of social situations due to fear of humiliation or embarrassment

feeling anxious or panicky before a social interaction

a realization that your fears are unreasonable

anxiety that disrupts daily living

Several types of treatment are available for social anxiety disorder. Treatment results differ from person to person. Some people only need one type of treatment. However, others may require more than one. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a mental health provider for treatment. Sometimes, primary care providers may suggest medication to treat symptoms.

Treatment options for social anxiety disorder include:

Cognitive behavioral therapy

This therapy helps you learn how to control anxiety through relaxation and breathing, and how to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.

Exposure therapy

This type of therapy helps you gradually face social situations, rather than avoiding them.

Group therapy

This therapy helps you learn social skills and techniques to interact with people in social settings. Participating in group therapy with others who have the same fears may make you feel less alone. It will give you a chance to practice your new skills through role-playing.

At-home treatments include:

Avoiding caffeine

Foods such as coffee, chocolate, and soda are stimulants and may increase anxiety.

Getting plenty of sleep

Getting at least eight hours of sleep per night is recommended. Lack of sleep can increase anxiety and worsen symptoms of social phobia.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications that treat anxiety and depression if your condition doesn't improve with therapy and lifestyle changes. These medications do not cure social anxiety disorder. However, they can improve your symptoms and help you function in your daily life. It can take up to three months for medication to improve your symptoms.

Medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat social anxiety disorder include Paxil, Zoloft, and Effexor XR. Your healthcare provider may start you with a low dose of medication and gradually increase your prescription to avoid side effects.

Common side effects of these medications include:

insomnia (sleeplessness)

weight gain

upset stomach

lack of sexual desire

Talk to your health care provider about the benefits and risks to decide which treatment is right for you.

According to the ADAA, about 36 percent of people with social anxiety don't speak to a healthcare provider until they have had symptoms for at least 10 years.

People with social phobia may rely on drugs and alcohol to cope with anxiety triggered by social interaction. Left untreated, social phobia can lead to other high-risk behaviors, including:

alcohol and drug abuse

loneliness

thoughts of suicide

The outlook for social anxiety is good with treatment. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication can help many people cope with their anxiety and function in social situations.

Social phobia doesn't have to control your life. Although it may take weeks or months, psychotherapy and/or medication can help you begin to feel calmer and more confident in social situations.

Keep your fears under control by:

recognizing the triggers that cause you to start feeling nervous or out of control

practicing relaxation and breathing techniques

taking your medication as directed

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Social Anxiety Disorder: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

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What Is Social Anxiety Disorder? Social anxiety disorder, sometimes referred to as social phobia, is a type of anxiety disorder that causes extreme fear in social settings. People with this disorder have trouble talking to people, meeting new people, and attending social gatherings. They fear being judged or scrutinized by others.

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Social anxiety disorder is a mental disorder that leads to severe anxiety, fear, and distress in social situations. This condition can significantly impair your ability to function in daily life.

What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is associated with severe anxiety and fear in social settings, such as public gatherings, meetings, social events, public performances, etc ¹. People suffering from social phobia are always apprehensive about negative scrutiny and public humiliation.

They may be wary of attending social events, forming new relationships, appearing for a job interview, eating in front of others, etc. Social phobia can manifest itself as anxious and fearful behavior in social settings and can also involve a number of physical and mental symptoms, such as blushing, sweating, and shaking.

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A. Physiological Symptoms

Social phobia induces a “fight-or-flight” response in its sufferers and this gets manifested in a number of physiological responses ⁵ . These may include:

1. Blushing

2. Excessive sweating

3. Palpitations

4. Nausea

5. Shaking or trembling

6. Breathing problems

7. Fainting

8. Inability to walk properly

9. Crying

10. Disjointed speech

B. Behavioral Symptoms

Severe anxiety disorder causes people to be overtly self-conscious in their personal perceptions and assessment. They are burdened by dreads of scrutiny, criticism, judgment, and underperformance in social contexts. Because of this, they may display the following behavioral symptoms ⁶:

1. Avoidance behavior (such as avoiding eye contact, physical contact, making conversation, etc.)

2. Awkward self-presentation

3. Withdrawing from social situations

4. Insecure, nervous, and unconfident behavior, etc.

C. Cognitive Symptoms

Social anxiety also involves a number of cognitive symptoms ⁷, which include the following:

1. Unrealistic social standards

2. Inability to select attainable social goals

3. Perception of self as a social object

4. Anticipation of negative evaluation from others

5. Negative interpretations of neutral events

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Social phobia has been examined from multiple perspectives—ranging from psychiatry and neuroscience to sociology and cultural studies. However, research is yet to uncover its exact causes. Some risk factors believed to influence the onset of social anxiety disorder are discussed below:

1. Biological Causes

Social anxiety disorder can be a result of genetic causes or dysregulation within the brain.

A. Heredity

Like any other behavioral disorder, social anxiety disorder shows great heritability ⁸. Research ⁹ suggests that a person is at a two- or three-fold greater risk of having social anxiety disorder if a first-degree relative already has it.

B. Brain chemistry

Research ¹⁰ has attributed the pathological causes of social phobia to neurotransmitters (such as dopamine, glutamate, serotonin) and increased activity in the limbic regions of the brain.

A 2007 meta-analysis ¹¹ suggests that individuals with a social anxiety disorder may have hyperactivation in the amygdala, the dorsal anterior cingulate, and insula areas—which are frequently associated with fear and negative emotional processing.

2. Psychosocial Causes

There are several psychosocial ¹² and developmental risk factors that may make a person more prone to social phobia. A 2007 study ¹³ states that people who are inclined to inhibited shyness, unexpected bursts of emotions, lack of internal control, avoidant behavior, and interpersonal sensitivity are more susceptible to social anxiety.

Some other factors that might play a role in the development of social phobia are:

A. Temperament

Temperament ¹⁴ is the early occurrence of traits or range of characteristics that go on to form a personality. Temperament research suggests that people who had a higher level of behavioral inhibition (BI) as children are more likely to eventually develop social phobia.

B. Childhood environment

The degree to which a child is exposed to social situations can be a crucial factor in determining whether they will grow up to be socially anxious. Restricted exposure can prevent a person from learning appropriate social skills. Moreover, if a child grows up around people who are also socially anxious, it is more likely that they will also learn the same behavior.

C. Parenting style

It has been seen that overprotection on the part of a parent can lead to social withdrawal in children. This can often develop into a social anxiety disorder. “Helicopter parenting” ¹⁵, a kind of parenting that involves a high level of involvement on the part of the parents, has also been found to be associated with social anxiety.

D. Traumatic experiences

First-hand negative social experiences involving public criticism and humiliation are potential triggers for social phobia. Some experiences that can lead to its onset include:

Bullying and harassment

Peer and parental pressure on children and adolescents ¹⁶

Emotional abuse involves intimidation, gaslighting, competitive berating, negative appraisal, etc.

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Treating Anxiety in Middle School Girls: A Guide for Parents - Asheville Academy

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Middle school is a particularly significant phase in one's development where teens build social skills and develop personal interests that help them discover who they are, however, it is also a prime environment for social pressure and social anxiety. Between hormonal changes, budding romantic interest, and an increased workload, many middle school girls struggle to feel like they fit in and may develop significant anxiety around these stressors.

We expect children to feel scared when faced with a new situation or when asked to do something by themselves, but when your child is worried all the time or when their anxiety is disproportionate to a particular situation, they might be struggling with an anxiety disorder.

If your teen's anxiety is leading to social withdrawal and academic struggles, reaching out for professional help can help them challenge their fears and learn to better manage their stress.

The guide is meant to be comprehensive, but as such, not every section will be applicable to everyone. Instead, we invite you to click on the links in the table of contents to jump to the sections that most interest you.

What is Anxiety?

Most kids are seen as carefree and only develop a sense of cautiousness as they begin to understand consequences of some actions; however anxiety is becoming more common among younger children due to the pressure they're under. They may either be self-conscious or care too much about what other people think or have specific phobias of animals, social situations, or death. Anxiety is based on a fear of something, but is expressed through physical symptoms. Some people may have panic attacks when they become overwhelmed with anxiety, while others may shut down emotionally, or talk in circles to defend why they are anxious. Anxiety is usually associated with ruminating about the past or worrying about the future.

Signs of Anxiety in Young Girls

Anxiety is typically characterized by persistent worrying, but it can be harder to pick up on signs of anxiety in younger girls if they struggle to articulate their thoughts and feelings. Often, children who express frequent physical complaints or seem withdrawn may be struggling with underlying anxiety.

Expresses fears about a variety of situations

Not being able to move on from the thing they are worrying about

Being overly self-critical

Suddenly avoiding social situations

Difficulty participating in class and interacting with peers

Needing constant validation or seeking approval

Fear of being alone

Trouble sleeping or nightmares

Nail biting or skin picking

Low self esteem

What's the Difference Between Fear and Anxiety?

Anxiety and fear may be interrelated, but these feelings arise for different reasons.

Fear is usually a response to a specific situation or anticipation of negative events. It is a common universal emotion that arises when worrying about life transitions, watching scary movies, or getting into a confrontation or argument. Many children have specific fears about certain situations that they overcome through experience.

What are the Causes of Anxiety in Girls?

Anxiety is experienced differently by every individual and may appear differently depending on the situation. Some people experience anxiety as consistent hyperarousal, while others experience it in association with worrying about specific events. Family history of anxiety and adverse childhood events play a significant role in the development of anxiety disorders.
Types of Anxiety Disorders:

Generalized Anxiety refers to ongoing, underlying self-doubt and hypervigilance that does not discriminate in situations

Social Anxiety refers to uneasiness, insecurity, and fears in social situations and close relationships

School Anxiety refers to specific fears about going to school that often reflect academic struggles, social struggles, and low self-esteem

Performance Anxiety refers to specific fears about public speaking, in front of a crowd or even a small group based on low confidence

Separation Anxiety stems from bullying or attachment issues with parents, related to a fear of abandonment or rejection

Panic involves sudden, intense episodes of anxiety that result in full shut-downs, but may not include general anxiety between episodes

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Many people with PTSD also struggle with generalized anxiety, but anxiety related to trauma is specific to triggers that remind them of experiencing or witnessing an intensely stressful event.

A symptom of Depression. Anxiety is often listed as a symptom of depression, as anxious thoughts can lead to feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness.

Four Things to Know About Childhood Anxiety

Anxiety in adolescence is common. As many as one in four young people struggle with anxiety. While it's normal to worry how it is affecting your middle schooler, they are not alone. People struggle with it to varying degrees, but it is possible to manage symptoms and lead a happy, productive life.

While anxiety can be triggered by some situations, it is a neurological disorder. They may express more anxiety around certain people or experiences, but it is not a phase that they will grow out of once they become more comfortable with those situations.

It often appears out of the blue. One second they may be laughing and having fun and the next, a debilitating wave of anxiety may crash over them. It may not be connected to certain fears at all or they just may not be able to identify where it's coming from.

Help doesn't have to mean medication. Most medications for anxiety are intended for short-term or "emergency use" rather than daily administration, although some medications for depression also target anxiety. We encourage teens to find healthy coping skills to keep in their "emotional toolbox" as long-term solutions.

When Does Your Daughter Need Treatment for Anxiety?

Most teens are anxious at one point or another in their lives, but there is a difference between situational anxiety and a clinical disorder. People with anxiety disorders are more likely to experience panic attacks brought on by intense anxiety. The terms panic attack and anxiety attack are used interchangeably, but they are not the same. The physical symptoms often overlap, however anxiety attacks often build up after periods of obsessive and ruminating thoughts.

How to Support Your Child Struggling with Anxiety:

1. Encourage self-care. Soothe physical symptoms of anxiety by taking care of their physical health. Eat healthy food and help them keep a regular sleep schedule. When our basic survival needs are met, we are better able to work on our other needs.

2. Show unconditional love and support. Teens struggling with anxiety may overanalyze their relationships with others and feel lonely. They may be more inclined to desperately seek others' approval or worry that they are pushing other people away. When a teen is in crisis, such love becomes even more important.

3. Spend more time outdoors. Technology use is linked to increased anxiety. Even when teens unplug, they may have a harder time turning their minds off after being overstimulated by screens. Spending time in nature helps them calm down and encourages them to be active.

4. Stay positive. When they are having trouble looking on the bright side, remind them of the light within them and around them. Help them recall good memories, point out positive moments happening right now, and talk about dreams for the future.

Types of Therapy

As anxiety is experienced both emotionally and physically, a clinical model that uses both traditional talk therapy and experiential therapy is a more effective way of treating the big picture of anxiety symptoms. Therapeutic boarding schools offer innovative therapeutic techniques, like recreation activities, mindfulness practice, and lifestyle changes that are difficult to implement in an outpatient setting. Our clinical model involves collaboration with the academic and residential teams to identify opportunities for growth.

Asheville Academy's licensed therapists specialize in addressing school refusal, depression, anxiety, family conflict, low self-esteem, relationship issues using a variety of therapeutic modalities:

Compassion-Focused Therapy. All of our therapists take a person-centered, strengths-based approach to working with young people

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy involves identifying negative beliefs that contribute to feelings of anxiety, discussing how those beliefs have been shaped, and challenging those negative thoughts

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy teaches students a variety of coping skills to apply to different situations

Neurofeedback targets brain waves in order to regulate brain activity and improve executive functioning

Animal therapy is offered on campus with horses and other barn animals where students practice regulating their emotions in order to connect with the animals

Group Therapy helps students practice relationship skills, like active listening and effective communication, and develop close relationships with their peers, which helps reduce social anxiety

Play Therapy is a useful intervention for this age group to help them express themselves in creative ways-through activities in individual sessions and gteam building games

Family Systems Therapy addresses how your child's anxiety has been influenced by and has impacted your family dynamic

Compassion-Focused Therapy

All of our therapists take a person-centered, strengths-based approach to working with young people
READ MORE
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy involves identifying negative beliefs that contribute to feelings of anxiety, discussing how those beliefs have been shaped, and challenging those negative thoughts
READ MORE
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy teaches students a variety of coping skills to apply to different situations
READ MORE
Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback targets brain waves in order to regulate brain activity and improve executive functioning
READ MORE
Animal therapy

Animal therapy is offered on campus with horses and other barn animals where students practice regulating their emotions in order to connect with the animals
READ MORE
Group Therapy

Group Therapy helps students practice relationship skills, like active listening and effective communication, and develop close relationships with their peers, which helps reduce social anxiety
READ MORE
Play Therapy

Play Therapy is a useful intervention for this age group to help them express themselves in creative ways-through activities in individual sessions and gteam building games
READ MORE
Family Systems

Family Systems Therapy addresses how your child's anxiety has been influenced by and has impacted your family dynamic
READ MORE

How Do Therapeutic Boarding Schools, like Asheville Academy,Help Girls Struggling with Anxiety?

Asheville Academy for girls uses a multidisciplinary approach to help teens with anxiety. Having a relationship-based milieu, daily mindfulness activities, and trauma-sensitive equine assisted therapy are just a few of the ways we help students learn to regulate their anxiety as well as increase self awareness of how anxiety impacts their mood, behavior, and relationships. We believe that therapy shouldn't end when your child leaves a formal session with their therapist. Instead, everything we do from our school curriculum to daily activities to our residential milieu help them advance towards their next milestone.
Individualized Attention in Small Classrooms
By offering small class sizes, we can reduce academic anxiety by offering students more individualized instruction and opportunities to address their academic needs in an appropriate and compassionate way. Our goal is to help students discover how they learn best and focus on empowering them to succeed based on their strengths.
Body-Mind Connection
Psychiatry services are available for students that may need medications to manage their anxiety. While anxiety is felt on a physiological level, we acknowledge that our belief systems perpetuate feelings of anxiety. We help students reduce their symptoms of anxiety by addressing underlying core beliefs that are holding the student back, in order to build self esteem and perseverance in their goals.
Sustainable Outcomes
By taking a holistic approach to managing anxiety that addresses underlying causes, therapeutic boarding schools work on setting middle school girls up for long term success . Adolescents that learn social and emotional skills and study skills at a younger age are more prepared to manage the stresses of high school without becoming overwhelmed by anxiety.

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Treating Anxiety in Middle School Girls: A Guide for Parents - Asheville Academy

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Middle school is a particularly significant phase in one's development where teens build social skills and develop personal interests that help them discover who they are, however, it is also a prime environment for social pressure and social anxiety.

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1. Is social anxiety a mental illness?

Social anxiety disorder is a form of anxiety disorder that leads to severe distress and anxiety in social situations. It is considered to be a mental disorder.

2. Do I have social anxiety?

If you dread social interaction and are afraid of public humiliation, embarrassment, etc. to a point where it significantly affects your wellbeing, you might have social phobia. However, this is very different from shyness or having an introverted personality. For an accurate assessment and diagnosis, it is advised that you consult a mental health professional.

3. What does it mean to have social anxiety?

A person has social anxiety if they fear social interaction or social events. A social context triggers social phobia, resulting in symptoms such as blushing, sweating, breathing problems, fainting, etc.

4. Can social anxiety be cured?

Social phobia is a very common anxiety disorder that can be easily treated with the help of therapy and/or medication. It can also be managed with the help of certain healthy coping techniques.

5. How do we help someone with social anxiety?

The key to helping someone deal with social anxiety involves free communication, patience, and understanding. Focus on their feelings and body language and listen patiently. Try distraction techniques (such as laughter, games & discussing hobbies) to ease their social stress. Most importantly, encourage them to seek help.

6. How to overcome social anxiety disorder naturally?

Some natural remedies for social anxiety disorder include yoga, meditation ⁴⁵, and exercise ⁴⁶ among other techniques.

7. What are the most common social phobias?

Studies have identified two main types of social phobia: the speaking-only phobia, which is characterized by a fear of public speaking, and the complex social phobia, characterized by a fear of multiple social situations ⁴⁷.

8. How is social anxiety disorder different from other anxiety disorders?

Social anxiety disorder is different from other anxiety disorders as it specifically involves a fear of social situations.

9. How can you prevent social anxiety disorder?

Since social anxiety disorder usually begins in childhood, prevention techniques are focused around improving the developmental environment, such as the home and school. Certain measures to prevent peer victimization in schools have been proven to be effective in combating the risk of developing social anxiety ⁴⁸.

10. Is social anxiety disorder more common in poor people?

Social anxiety disorder has been found to have a significant association with a lower socioeconomic status. ⁴⁹

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Step 1. Address book

To cope with the complexity of relationships, we have reduced our perceptions of others to a series of cold labels; lazy, chattering, cowardly, arrogant, unapproachable ...... Unable to explore, unable to dig deeper, and with no intention of reversing their prejudices, each person's mind is like a casebook containing these labels. One-sided prejudice is not only a trigger for deteriorating communication, it also hinders interpersonal communication.

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Step 2. Greetings

Why does a warm greeting seem to freeze in the eyes of others? Is it an oversight in the wording or a paranoia on the part of the person who understands?
A lapse between understanding and expression is the beginning of a breakdown in communication.

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Step 3, Distortion

The process of comprehension is like a distillation and purification process; eventually, the rough and the essential are eliminated, the false and the true are eliminated and the so-called answer is obtained. However, is this answer also the result of a subjective The analysis of the comprehending person? The gap between understanding and expression is essentially the estrangement between the one who understands and the one who expresses.

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Step 4. Waiting

When the communicating parties become aware of the gap, doubt, blame and even low self-esteem can further hinder the process of effective communication. You are often held up by fear and faltering. The impasse leaves only broken trust and dry hearts

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What is a Sensory Bottle? What are their benefits?

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What is a Sensory Bottle? What are their benefits?

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What is a Sensory Bottle?

They consist of a jar or bottle that we fill with different materials generating a variety of sensations and stimulating essential areas of the brain when the child moves it.

We can fill sensory Bottles with liquid or not. I particularly like those containing liquid because they generate a relaxing and attractive effect when moved. Other components can be added to the water so that the impact of falling objects is slower (it can be baby oil, glue, glycerine).

You can also have objects that make noises, objects of different sizes and textures, and various colors so that the child can identify them when moving the bottle.

Emotional regulation: These bottles are an excellent tool to promote relaxation, attract positive emotions in the child, and provide a moment of enjoyment to relieve their tensions. A good time to use it can be after some period of distress like a long car journey, arriving tired from daycare, or before going to sleep. Parents need to provide a calm environment when using the bottle; this can be playing quiet music, dimming the lights, turning off the television.

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Step 5. Honesty

Communication can certainly be tiring if too much energy is spent on considering expressions and explanations; confused relationships can sink in and any excuses, opinions will only make the situation worse. Open up and get to know yourself; be honest and people will get to know you.

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At the turn of the twentieth century, Swedish artist Hilma af Klint (1862–1944) created a body of work that left visible reality behind, exploring the radical possibilities of abstraction years before Vasily Kandinsky, Kazimir Malevich, or Piet Mondrian. Many consider her the first trained artist to create abstract paintings. With Hilma af Klint: Notes and Methods, we get to experience the arc of af Klint’s artistic investigation in her own words.

Hilma af Klint studied at the Royal Swedish Academy in Stockholm where she was part of the first generation of female students.  Up until the beginning of the century, she painted mainly landscapes and detailed botanical studies. Her work from this period was that of a young artist of her time who meticulously observed the world around her. But, like many of her contemporaries, af Klint was also interested in the invisible relationships that shape our world, believing strongly in a spiritual dimension. She joined the Theosophical Society, and, with four fellow female members who together called themselves “The Five,” began to study mediumship.  Between 1906 and 1915, purportedly guided by a higher power, af Klint created 193 individual works that, in both scale and scope of imagery, are like no other art created at that time.  Botanically inspired images and mystical symbols, diagrams, words, and geometric series, all form part of af Klint’s abstract language. These abstract techniques would not be seen again until years later.

Notes and Methods presents facsimile reproductions of a wide array of af Klint’s early notebooks accompanied by the first English translation of af Klint’s extensive writings. It contains the rarely seen “Blue Notebooks,” hand-painted and annotated catalogues af Klint created of her most famous series “Paintings for the Temple,” and a dictionary compiled by af Klint of the words and letters found in her work. This extraordinary collection is edited by and copublished with Christine Burgin, and features an introduction by Iris Müller-Westermann. It will stand as an important and timely contribution to the legacy of Hilma af Klint.

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What are Expressive Arts Therapy? - Modalities

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Integrative Psychotherapy & Trauma Treatment

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Expressive arts therapy is a multimodal approach, combining psychology and the creative process to promote personal growth and healing. It is a therapy approach that is gentle, yet effective especially for those who have not felt relief or success with traditional psychotherapy. The focus in this approach is less focused on the mind making shifts or coming up with answers, but rather, it trusts that by creative expression, the mind and body will find a way to process and resolve some pressing issues.

This approach has helped many clients heal from anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship issues and fears.

Expressive Arts is powered by an inborn desire to create, and utilizes creative expression as a therapeutic tool to help initiate change. The difference between expressive arts therapy and art therapy is that expressive arts therapy draws from a variety of art forms such as writing, psychodrama, dance, movement, painting, drawing, sculpting, play and music (or a combination of them), while art therapy is based on one particular art form.

Based on the assumption that people can heal through self-discovery, creative expression gives therapists an incredible variety of tools to help clients tap into their imagination, body sensations, feelings, emotions, and thought processes in profound ways.

Clients explore their inner world through pictures, sounds, imagery, storytelling, dance, music, drama, poetry, movement, horticulture, and visual arts in an integrated way, to facilitate growth and healing.

By using creative processes, clients are able to push boundaries and remove barriers that can sometimes inhibit progress and healing in traditional talk therapies. Expressive arts acknowledges that each person's process is unique, and while one individual may be successful with talk therapy, another person may prefer to use journaling, movement, art, or a combination of different experiences during therapy.

Expressive arts therapy is successful because it is not based on artistic outcomes but rather on the process of creating.

A person who utilizes expressive arts therapy is not required to have any artistic ability whatsoever.

Each creative arts modality is unique, and the use of each is carefully considered by each expressive arts therapist. For example, journaling might be an appropriate expressive outlet for someone new to therapy. On the other side of the spectrum, a person who has already established a strong therapeutic relationship with his or her therapist may appreciate the use of movement or drama. Careful use of each modality is determined by the strength, timing, and readiness of the person in therapy. Different modalities may be used at any point throughout the therapeutic process as needed. Homework may also be issued for the person in therapy to complete between sessions.

The therapeutic impact of expressive arts therapy is focused on four major areas:

Because creativity stems from a deep emotional place inside, the arts enable an unparalleled self-discovery process and helps to hone the healing of common emotional ailments and inhibitions such as perfectionism, "never enoughness", black and white thinking, and many shades of fear. Creativity becomes a unique journey to expression of inner feelings, deepest desires and long-lost intuition. In other words, the creative process becomes the pathway to emotional health.

If you are looking to heal some of your perfectionism, a past trauma, anxiety, relationship issues or depression, expressive arts may be a useful route for you in therapy! This approach has been useful for an array of presenting emotional struggles, and has even been helpful for those who are just looking for a supportive place to explore who they are and what goals they would like to focus on in life.

The good news? Your Expressive Arts session doesn't always need to be about processing something emotionally intense, though it will almost always leaving your feeling more focused and grounded, and you'll create something fun, light and creative, which is the great part of it all!

Reach out to schedule your first expressive arts session.

We offer telehealth counseling via video platform as well as in-person sessions.

At Integrative Psychotherapy we are trained to help you use expressive therapies to help you heal and move forward with life with more ease.

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What are Expressive Arts Therapy? - Modalities

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Expressive arts therapy is a multimodal approach, combining psychology and the creative process to promote personal growth and healing. It is a therapy approach that is gentle, yet effective especially for those who have not felt relief or success with traditional psychotherapy.

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Hilma af Klint: Paintings for the Future | The Guggenheim Museums and Foundation

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Hilma af Klint: Paintings for the Future | The Guggenheim Museums and Foundation

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This exhibition featured bold, colorful paintings by a long-underrecognized innovator of abstract art, Hilma af Klint (1862-1944).

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Composes and simplifies the views and ideas of the psychologist Adler, including nice readings of some of the ideas. For example:
All troubles come from human relationships． People like to seek superiority and "the inability to achieve the ideal self creates a sense of inferiority" A sense of inferiority is not the same as an inferiority complex - an inferiority complex can be an opportunity to lead to effort and progress.

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Mandala dot painting|Dot painting patterns|Mandala art for beginners|Mandala art on canvas|

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Mandala dot painting|Dot painting patterns|Mandala art for beginners|Mandala art on canvas|

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Social anxiety disorder in adolescence: How developmental cognitive neuroscience findings may shape understanding and interventions for psychopathology

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Social anxiety disorder in adolescence: How developmental cognitive neuroscience findings may shape understanding and interventions for psychopathology

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Social anxiety disorder represents a debilitating condition that has large adverse effects on the quality of social connections, educational achieveme...

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A child who is being bullied may feel alone and confused. They may become secretive or protective about their day or digital life. There may be a noticeable change in their personality - such as becoming angry, upset, or quiet. They may not want to go to school or behave badly in class when they are normally well behaved.

If your child is being bullied, they might not know how to handle it or who to confide in. They may feel it's their fault.

How you can help

If you suspect your child is being bullied:

Reassure them it's not their fault and that they don't deserve to be treated that way. Let them know that asking for help, rather than retaliating, is the best way to stop the problem.

Explain bullying in simple words - you could tell them that it is:
- saying or writing mean things - teasing, name calling, putting someone down, or mimicking them
- hurting someone by spreading rumours or gossiping about them online or offline, embarrassing them in front of other people, or encouraging other children not to include or be friends with them
- hurting a person's body, or their belongings by hitting, kicking, tripping, pushing or breaking someone's toys or special things.

Explain that the bully may feel insecure or think that picking on someone will make them more popular or in control. Some children might not know that it's not acceptable to pick on someone different.

Encourage your child to walk away if they are being bullied and to tell you, their teacher or another adult when bullying occurs.

Encourage them to speak up for others too - ask your child if they know someone who is or has been bullied. Encourage them to befriend that child and include them while they are playing.

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A child who is being bullied may feel alone and confused. They may become secretive or protective about their day or digital life. There may be a noticeable change in their personality - such as becoming angry, upset, or quiet. They may not want to go to school or behave badly in class when they are normally well behaved.

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What is ASD? - ASK: Advocates for Spectrum Knowledge

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"What is ASD?" This is one of the most controversial topics at hand and with due rights. ASD is constantly changing and evolving to include more and more "disorders" in what seems like a daily basis. The ASD umbrella has been jam packed with more and more clinical disorders that health professionals see fits best under this category that it has sent the total numbers of individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder sky rocketing to astronomical highs. By doing so it has sent many into a state of fear of sorts of the individuals on the spectrum and in many cases caused undo criticisms towards these individuals. Even with all of the opinions and expertise going around, the underlying question still exists. "What is ASD?" We will give you the clinical definition set forth by the CDC, but the real purpose for this blog is to let the people be heard. This site is about letting all speak on the matter so we can as a community create an answer to this question that seems to go in so many directions. To try to minimalize any fears surrounding this question or the individuals it involves. So please, we invite everyone to get involved so we can all read the opinions that surround this question. We look forward to reading every persons response on this topic.

CDC definition: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. There is often nothing about how people with ASD look that sets them apart from other people, but people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others need less.

A diagnosis of ASD now includes several conditions that used to be diagnosed separately: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger syndrome. These conditions are now all called autism spectrum disorder.

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What is ASD? - ASK: Advocates for Spectrum Knowledge

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"What is ASD?" This is one of the most controversial topics at hand and with due rights. ASD is constantly changing and evolving to include more and more "disorders" in what seems like a daily basis.

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How Emotions and Organs Are Connected in Traditional Chinese Medicine

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How Emotions and Organs Are Connected in Traditional Chinese Medicine

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Learn - Biofield Toronto | Tuning Forks and Biofield Tuning

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Biofield Toronto | Tuning Forks and Biofield Tuning

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Biofield Therapy creates improved coherence within the biofield so that the corresponding physical, mental, and emotional aspects become more coherent and healthy.

Biofield therapy is a noninvasive, practitioner-mediated modality that explicitly works with the biofield of both the practitioner and client to stimulate a healing response in the client who often suffer from chronic pain, arthritis, and movement restriction.

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Learn - Biofield Toronto | Tuning Forks and Biofield Tuning

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Biofield Therapy creates improved coherence within the biofield so that the corresponding physical, mental, and emotional aspects become more coherent and healthy. Biofield therapy is a noninvasive, practitioner-mediated modality that explicitly works with the biofield of both the practitioner and client to stimulate a healing response in the client who often suffer from chronic pain, arthritis, and movement restriction.

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Hilma af Klint & Piet Mondrian | Tate Modern

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Hilma af Klint & Piet Mondrian | Tate Modern

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This is a unique chance to discover the visionary work of Swedish painter Hilma af Klint and experience Dutch painter Piet Mondrian’s influential art in a new light.

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Hilma af Klint: Artist, Researcher, Medium - Mediumistic Art

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Hilma af Klint: Artist, Researcher, Medium is presented at the Moderna Museet, Malmo until February 21st 2021

The pictures were painted directly through me, without any preliminary drawings and with great force. I had no idea what the paintings were supposed to depict; nevertheless, I worked swiftly and surely, without changing a single brushstroke. Hilma af Klint

Hilma af Klint, The Ten Largest, No. 8, Adulthood, 1907 © Stiftelsen Hilma af Klints Verk Photo: Albin Dahlström/Moderna Museet

Hilma af Klint (1862-1944) was a pioneer of abstraction. As early as 1906 she had developed a rich, symbolic imagery that preceded the more broadly recognized emergence of abstract art. Since her retrospective at Moderna Museet in Stockholm in 2013, interest in the Swedish artist has increased all over the world. The exhibition Hilma af Klint - Artist, Researcher, Medium further expands our understanding of this groundbreaking artist and researcher.

Hilma af Klint studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm from 1882 to 1887 where she focused on naturalistic landscape and portrait paintings. Like many of her contemporaries, af Klint also had a keen interest in invisible dimensions that exist beyond the visible world. When painting she was convinced that she was in contact with higher consciousness, which conveyed messages through her. Her major series, "The Paintings for the Temple", became the crux of this artistic inquiry.

The exhibition centres on three aspects of Hilma af Klint's life and interests - as artist, researcher and medium - that are key to revealing and understanding her art. With few exceptions, af Klint never exhibited her abstract works during her lifetime. Yet she left us with a radical body of work - unprecedented in its use of color, scale and composition - which she hoped future audiences might be better able to sense and decode.

Hilma af Klint made paintings for the future, and that future is now.

Like many of her contemporaries at the turn of the twentieth century, Hilma af Klint sought to expand her consciousness in order to gain a wider perspective on what we perceive as reality. Consciousness remains one of the deepest mysteries in our time, a subject eagerly explored in neurology, psychology, quantum physics and epigenetics. As part of her spiritual practice, af Klint meditated, adhered to a vegetarian diet, and studied Theosophy and Rosicrucianism. These two esoteric schools thought knowledge of a deeper spiritual reality could be achieved through focused attention on intuition, meditation, and other means of transcending normal human consciousness. Over a period of ten years, af Klint met weekly with four other women, known as De fem ("The Five"). They trained their capability to access or "channel" higher levels of consciousness through contact with spiritual guides known as De Höga (The Masters). Af Klint received a specific assignment, which she accepted, known as "The Paintings for the Temple". She worked throughout her life to understand the deeper meaning embedded in these works.

The artist described how she painted the series as a medium, where shapes, colors and compositions came to her. Although af Klint perceived these works as flowing uninhibitedly through her guided hand, she very much applied herself and all her skills in the process: she worked methodically and sequentially in series, divided into thematically and formally focused groups exploring different aspects of cosmic and human evolution.

Between 1906 and 1915, Hilma af Klint created "The Paintings for the Temple". It comprises 193 paintings and drawings, divided into series and groups. Works produced between 1906 and 1908 are on view in the Turbine Hall; works from the second part of the series from 1912 to 1915 are on view in the upstairs galleries at Moderna Museet Malmö.

The overall theme of the series is to convey different aspects of human evolution, instigated by polarity. "The Paintings for the Temple"also thematises different stages of development that every human being goes through during life on earth. The temple in the title refers not only to a physical building, which af Klint imagined would house the work, but also to the body as a temple for the soul.

The catalogue Hilma af Klint: Artist, Researcher, Medium accompanies this exhibition.

For more exhibitions on this artist see Hilma af Klint: Paintings for the Future and Hilma af Klint: A Pioneer of Abstraction

Text: From the Press Information for the exhibition.

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Hilma af Klint: Artist, Researcher, Medium - Mediumistic Art

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Hilma af Klint: Artist, Researcher, Medium is presented at the Moderna Museet, Malmo until February 21st 2021 The pictures were painted directly through me, without any preliminary drawings and with great force. I had no idea what the paintings were supposed to depict; nevertheless, I worked swiftly and surely, without changing a single brushstroke.

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Symbols in Hilma af Klint's imagery | Moderna Museet i Stockholm

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Hilma af Klint’s imagery is full of symbols, letters and words. Symbols are like doors into another dimension. For Hilma af Klint, her entire work was about conveying the messages she received, and to shed light on the great existential issues.

It would be pointless to translate the symbols and letters in Hilma af Klint’s works into definite, unambiguous terms. They must always be seen in relation to the entire context. In her notebook Symboler, Bokstäver och Ord tillhörande Hilma af Klints målningar [Notes on Letters and Words pertaining to Works by Hilma af Klint] she attempts to clarify the complex meanings of the various signs. Here are a few general explanations:

The snail or spiral represents development or evolution.

The eyelet and the hook, blue and yellow, and the lily and the rose represent femininity and masculinity respectively.

W stands for matter, while U stands for spirit.

The almond shape arising when two circles overlap is called the vesica piscis and is an ancient symbol for the development towards unity and completion.

The swan represents the ethereal in many mythologies and religions and stands for completion in the alchemical tradition.

In Christianity, the dove represents the holy spirit and love.

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It would be pointless to translate the symbols and letters in Hilma af Klint's works into definite, unambiguous terms. They must always be seen in relation to the entire context. In her notebook Symboler, Bokstäver och Ord tillhörande Hilma af Klints målningar [Notes on Letters and Words pertaining to Works by Hilma af Klint] she attempts to clarify the complex meanings of the various signs. Here are a few general explanations:

The snail or spiral represents development or evolution.

The eyelet and the hook, blue and yellow, and the lily and the rose represent femininity and masculinity respectively.

W stands for matter, while U stands for spirit.

The almond shape arising when two circles overlap is called the vesica piscis and is an ancient symbol for the development towards unity and completion.

The swan represents the ethereal in many mythologies and religions and stands for completion in the alchemical tradition.

In Christianity, the dove represents the holy spirit and love.

Terminology

Esoteric and occult denote "the science of the hidden dimensions". Western esotericism is a mixture of Neoplatonism, Hermeticism, Jewish kabbalah and the three occult "sciences" of astrology, magic and alchemy.

Spiritualism shares the conviction that it is possible to make contact with the spirits of the deceased. Modern spiritism was spread thanks to the Fox sisters in the USA in 1848.

Theosophy is a general doctrine incorporating inspiration from various religions and spiritism. The religions are regarded as different expressions of one fundamental truth. Theosophy teaches that the origin of everything, divinity, is inherent in every being. The Theosophical Society was founded in New York in 1875 by Helena Blavatsky and others. There is also an older form of theosophy that is significantly different to the newer version.

Anthroposophy is a life philosophy that originated in theosophy. Rudolf Steiner, who was the leader of the German branch of the Theosophical Society, left theosophy in 1913 to set up the anthroposophical movement. The two philosophies have a great deal in common, but anthroposophy in general has a stronger Christian element.

According to legend, the Rosicrucians were an esoteric society in Germany who engaged in alchemy in the early 17th century. Today, there are many secret orders that claim to uphold the Rosicrucian traditions.

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Symbols in Hilma af Klint's imagery | Moderna Museet i Stockholm

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Hilma af Klint's imagery is full of symbols, letters and words. Symbols are like doors into another dimension. For Hilma af Klint, her entire work was about conveying the messages she received, and to shed light on the great existential issues.

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Hilma af Klint assumed that there was a spiritual dimension to life and aimed at visualizing contexts beyond what the eye can see. When painting, she believed that she was in contact with a higher consciousness that spoke and conveyed messages through her. Like many of her contemporaries, she was influenced by spiritual movements, especially spiritualism, theosophy and later anthroposophy. Through her paintings, she sought to understand and communicate the various dimensions of human existence.