It is not uncommon to face difficulties or discomfort in response to a particular type of social environment or situation. It is normal to occasionally struggle with communication and/or relationships. However, for some, social difficulties can be a severe and debilitating problem. It can cause problems within relationships and reduce a person’s self-esteem. Social skills describe a broad range of abilities – some of which, you may feel, other people carry out with ease and take for granted. Given social communication is vital in all aspects of life, social difficulties can make it more difficult to succeed in a range of ways, particularly in work and education settings.
Sometimes difficulties in social communication can have a severe effect on a person if it develops into social anxiety. Social anxiety is being extremely preoccupied and worried about being negatively criticised and evaluated by others. This concern can become so great that people begin to avoid social events and other public situations in which they may interact with others. The nature of this disorder makes it also greatly affect those around the individual – particularly their loved ones. Seeing someone in your family, such as your partner or child, feel negatively about their ability to interact with others can be extremely upsetting.
On the other hand, your family member may feel confident in social situations, but have received feedback from others about their social skills. For example, friends or colleagues may have commented that they are too outspoken, blunt, or insensitive. Your loved one may struggle to understand where they are going wrong, and wonder why they constantly fight with colleagues or friends. If this is the case, they may need help to understand their social interaction style on a deeper level.
If there is someone in your family who needs assistance with social skills or a more severe form – such as social anxiety – it can be extremely beneficial to seek help. However, if this is starting to take a toll on your own ability to enjoy life and go about your day, VCPS can assist you as well.
Not only will our practitioners provide an emotional support and a place for you to release any concerns, they will also:
