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Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental disorders in the U.S., with social anxiety disorders ranking as the most common. These disorders, like many mental health conditions, vary in severity. While some individuals can easily manage an anxiety disorder, for others, it can become debilitating. Regardless of where a Christian experiencing an anxiety disorder falls on the spectrum, they can discover help and hope in God.
Anxiety can be triggered by various factors, including certain physical conditions. Treatment for these disorders may involve self-help strategies, professional therapy, medication, or a combination of these approaches. Prayer, studying God’s Word, and engaging in Christian fellowship are crucial components in overcoming social anxiety; these are practices that every Christian should participate in. The preference for cognitive therapy as the primary treatment for anxiety disorders indicates that the battle often occurs within the mind. The Bible teaches that Christians have the ability to control their thoughts and focus because God has bestowed upon us the Holy Spirit to guide us in such matters (John 14:26-27). Many individuals may not realize that they have significant control over their thoughts, but through practice, prayer, and divine assistance, victory can be achieved, or at the very least, anxiety can be managed (see Philippians 4:7). We understand that God’s plan for His children does not involve a life dominated by fear “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”, (2 Timothy 1:7).
Social anxiety (SA) is a specific form of anxiety disorder characterized by an irrational fear of public situations. Often, individuals with social anxiety disorder believe that others are scrutinizing them withA critical and judgmental eye. Or he might be afraid of doing something wrong or making a social mistake. Sufferers are extremely self-conscious and are in perpetual fear of embarrassing themselves. Because those with social anxiety are usually perfectionists, a helpful thing for them to learn is that no one is perfect, except for Jesus Christ «who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: », (1 Peter 2:22). Western culture has bombarded people with the false idea that perfection can be attained if you look a certain way, own a certain thing, or have a certain career. Those who do not meet these standards are sometimes seen as, or see themselves as, less-than and unworthy of social merit. The Bible tells us none of these things matter to God; He looks at the heart «But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. », (1 Samuel 16:7). Those suffering from SA should realize they are not perfect—and neither is anyone else «for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; », (Romans 3:23). Rather than hold themselves to an unattainable standard and live as their own worst and constant critic, it behooves those suffering from SA to learn to accept forgiveness in Christ and to look to His righteousness. Living up to societal standards is not what makes a person acceptable; being a child of God is what matters.
The principle of sowing and reaping is found throughout the Bible and is active in our everyday lives (Galatians 6:7; Proverbs 11:18). Jesus said, “JuJudge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven” «Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: », (Luke 6:37). To the individual experiencing social anxiety, it may seem like everyone else is inclined to judge them or is keenly aware of their every flaw. This perception often stems from their own self-criticism and excessive focus on others’ opinions. Because individuals with social anxiety are harsh on themselves and overly attentive to others, they assume a similar mindset in others. When we cultivate a forgiving, loving, and merciful attitude towards others, we will receive the same «give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. », (Luke 6:38). It is essential to extend this attitude towards ourselves as well. By embracing ourselves as God has created us and seeking validation and forgiveness from Him alone, we can feel more at ease in our own skin. The more comfortable we are in our authenticity, the more socially at ease we become and the more appealing we are to others. We can also rely on God in social settings. As we deepen our trust in Him and enhance our relationship with Him, we become more attuned to His presence and can rely on His Holy Spirit to guide us through challenging social interactions. Many individuals with social anxiety have experienced past traumas or had critical, overbearing parents. These experiences may shape our self-perception and attitudes towards others without our conscious awareness. While the aforementioned strategies can benefit such individuals, it may also be crucial to dedicate focused effort to uncovering these ingrained beliefs.
Understanding the attitudes we hold toward ourselves is crucial. By recognizing how we perceive ourselves, we can compare it to God’s truth and seek His perspective. God has the power to bring healing to our wounds and reveal the truth to dispel any falsehoods. For individuals struggling with severe social anxiety, seeking guidance from a Christian counselor can be beneficial in the healing process. Ultimately, we can rely on the Holy Spirit to comfort us in our pain, lead us to the truth (John 14:25–27;16:33), and manifest His fruit in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).
For those grappling with social anxiety and extreme shyness, we advocate embracing a biblical perspective of self. As believers, we are cherished “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8), we are embraced “to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.” (Ephesians 1:6), and we are not judged “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1). With our security in Christ, we have the liberty to connect with others and love our neighbors as ourselves “and to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” (Mark 12:33).
