A surprising number of people in the world today are wondering how to get over social anxiety disorder.
In fact, it is one of the leading reasons that people in America seek counseling from psychological specialists.
If you've ever felt sick at the thought of meeting someone new, or turned down a date because you were afraid you'd embarrass yourself at dinner, then you understand what social anxiety is all about.
Since you're reading this, I know that you've decided you want to overcome this problem and put it behind you once and for all.
The good news is that you can do this without time consuming counseling or unhealthy drugs.
Face the truth and make a plan.
Begin by considering what you are most afraid of.
Could it really happen? If so, what would be the long-term consequences? For the record, it is medically impossible to die from embarrassment.
Next, consider how you would handle whatever you are afraid of.
Consider the following options and note any that you feel might help:

• If you feel panicked in a situation, take a deep breath and let it out slowly.
  
• If you are afraid that you will say the wrong thing in a social situation, practice appropriate responses to different topics that might arise at a party.
  
• If you are afraid you will do something inappropriate, consider what you have to do at a party.
  
• If you are nervous that you might get drunk, don't drink.
  If you are afraid that others will find it strange that you are not drinking, ask the bartender for club soda, or, better yet, offer to be the designated driver.
  Everyone will love you and you can laugh at how they act when they're drunk.
  
• If you are afraid of wearing the wrong thing, call the person giving the party and ask what he is wearing.
  
• If you are afraid of spilling something on yourself at a dinner, put a few packets of instant cleaning wipes in your purse or pocket.
  Then if you do spill, you can excuse yourself to the restroom and take care of the spot right away.
  
• If you are afraid that some bodily function will embarrass you, avoid any foods that might cause a problem.