STAMFORD, CT – NOVEMBER 24: Central American immigrants and their families pray before Thanksgiving dinner on November 24, 2016 in Stamford, Connecticut. Family and friends, some of them U.S. citizens, others on work visas and some undocumented immigrants came together in an apartment to celebrate the American holiday with turkey and Latin American dishes. They expressed concern with the results of the U.S. Presidential election of president-elect Donald Trump, some saying their U.S.-born children fear the possibilty their parents will be deported after Trump’s inauguration. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)
Photo by John Moore / StaffWhen I first heard this phrase I didn't think it was real, but 'Thanksgiving Anxiety Disorder' is a real thing. Or says The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). They say almost 7% of all adults int he U.S. experience social anxiety. It can also be called "social phobia".
The NIMH defines social anxiety as an "intense, persistent fear of being judged by others." They say most with this disorder blow things out of proportion, think all eyes are on them, etc. They say if you have this disorder you probably struggle with school, work or other social situations like parties, family celebrations like Thanksgiving!! And you know that'll be a beast!
So just what do you do to manage that anxiety because you know you'll have to be around tons of people - some family, some you don't even know. Well, the NIMH has some tips that could help relieve some of your anxiety.
- Prepare in advance - If you already know that you'll have to be around a large group of people, then it's probably a good idea to do a little mental and practical preparation. You may even want to engage in meditation or breathing exercises. Or even prepare a list of potential conversation topics in advance.
- Make sure you have a job to do - The name of the game is staying busy to keep you mind off of the anxiety and paranoia
- Turn your anxiety into excitement - When you feel the wave of panic coming on, try to imagine that you're excited instead. You may even want to recite mantras to trick your brain.
- Be in the moment, be curious - Being mindful and being "in the moment" can help reduce anxiety. Try to be curious, ask questions.
- Remember, you're in charge - If you get overwhelmed you can always leave and go home. You might need to take a "time out."
