Most people experience some anxiety in social situations like public speaking or meeting new people. However, for others it can lead to avoiding certain situations and cause marked anxiety. Often this stems from fear of harsh judgment from others and undervaluing of the self. Here are a few ways to cope with social anxiety:
1) Write down your fears about being with people and see if they are realistic. Are you possibly fearing the worst possible scenario? Are there other positive possibilities you can think of?
2) Practice evenly paced diaphragmatic breathing and remember the anxiety will pass.
3) Don't overwhelm yourself. Some situations will provoke more anxiety than others. Attend functions that may evoke some anxiety and as you cope with those, go to other functions that may be a bit more difficult.
4) Remember that avoidance can often make anxiety worse because we don't have a chance to prove our fears wrong.
If your social anxiety is overwhelming and you would like additional support, make an appointment with a therapist who can work with you more in depth.