Social anxiety disorder can be isolating and may interfere with your everyday life. It can hold you hostage, making you feel like you are being closely observed, and may pressure you to avoid any or all social interactions. It can make the sufferer seek out safety and comfort in order to avoid social situations. This may compound unhealthy views of self, like unworthiness and loathing. In this blog post we are going to take a look at how dogs can help with many different aspects of social anxiety:
Non-Judgemental Support
Facing your disorder can be terrifying, and it is only natural to feel afraid – especially if you don’t have supportive family and friends close by. You are not alone, and there are lots of support groups and services you can access. There is also a special type of support you can receive from a furry four-legged friend! Nothing compares to the unconditional love that comes from your dog. They will always be on your side and offer non-judgemental support and beautiful companionship. Your dog will be there by your side through sunshine and rain, success and pain!
Sense Of Purpose
Your dog loves and trusts you unconditionally. Being an owner is a great responsibility that can bring a real sense of purpose, pride and love. Your dog depends on you for everything: food, exercise and companionship. This can be a great reason to fight through difficult times you might experience when managing your social anxiety disorder. Maintaining a sense of purpose has been proven to reduce feelings of anxiety, and what better purpose than looking after your beautiful dog?
Inspire Relationships
Suffering with social anxiety disorder can leave you feeling afraid of judgement from others. This in turn can affect your ability to make and maintain close or intimate relationships with others. Your relationship with your dog can build a bridge to help you have genuine interactions with others. Spending time gazing into the eyes of your dog can increase levels of oxytocin (the love hormone), which increases bonding between pet and owner. This precious connection can ignite emotional pathways that may have become dull due to anxiousness in social situations. Realising that this bond is possible with a living thing can reduce fear of rejection, which is a common symptom.
Dogs are brilliant at inspiring conversation! Though this may seem terrifying at first, the repetition of short, low risk interactions with strangers about your dog can be perfect practice for longer and more meaningful conversations with others. Dogs provide a common ground between owners and having your dog with you can help you to feel more confident.
