Introversion tends to be a stable personality style; social anxiety can develop over time. In both cases people may limit social experiences, but for entirely different reasons.
Introverts generally have a preference for solitude or reflection. Introverts can find social situations draining rather than energizing. As a result, they may make the active choice to keep to themselves, given the opportunity.
People with social anxiety may wish to be more social but are held back by a fear of judgment by others. Most people can relate to feeling discomfort when they’re the center of attention, for example when speaking or performing in front of a large group. People with social anxiety, however, feel this self-consciousness disproportionately. They may avoid social and performance situations for fear of being judged, embarrassed or humiliated. And, if they can’t avoid them, they experience extreme anxiety and distress, even panic attacks, in those situations.
Social anxiety can lead people to hold back from social, romantic or career opportunities, whether in the day-to-day or in terms of broader life goals. People who experience very high levels of social anxiety, so that it causes a lot of distress and interferes with how they’d like to live their life, may have what’s called Social Anxiety Disorder. Social Anxiety Disorder can only be diagnosed by a licensed professional.
Care to learn more about social anxiety? We hosted a webinar with Kevin Frankish and our expert therapists here to answer all your questions:
If you find yourself struggling with social anxiety, you can access our programs by visiting our Virtual Mental Health Therapy Clinic. If you are part of our Workplace Mental Health Program, please visit your company page for access to services covered by your workplace.