Social Anxiety Disorder Symptoms
9. Gastrointestinal Issues
Different people carry stress in different ways, and many of these coping mechanisms have physical manifestations. Some people get tense muscles, particularly around the neck and shoulder area. Other people carry their stress in their gut, making it difficult for their gastrointestinal system to function the way it’s supposed to work. This is a common symptom of social anxiety disorder.
For many anxious people, gastrointestinal distress is one of the first signs that something is wrong. They may see themselves as socially awkward but do not know the extent of the problem. Then they get diagnosed with a condition like irritable bowel syndrome, and their doctor starts to suggest ways to deal with the problem, which often includes dealing with psychological issues such as anxiety or stress. This may be the first indication that people have underlying issues with social anxiety.
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