Gradual exposure to social situations combined with skills training is a well-established therapeutic approach for individuals experiencing social anxiety. This intervention allows individuals to face their fears in a controlled manner, helping them to become more comfortable in social settings over time.
Gradual exposure helps to desensitize the person to anxiety-provoking situations and can significantly reduce the intensity of their anxiety responses. Skills training can also provide them with the tools necessary to manage their anxiety, such as developing effective communication skills, learning relaxation techniques, and building confidence in social interactions. This two-pronged approach addresses both the avoidance behavior common in social anxiety and equips the individual with strategies to handle situations that may cause discomfort.
In contrast, withdrawing from social interactions can reinforce anxiety and prevent the individual from learning how to cope with their fears. Relying solely on restorative sleep may help overall well-being but does not provide the necessary confrontation of anxiety-inducing situations. Immersing someone immediately in public speaking events without preparation could lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety and may reinforce negative associations with social situations, rather than alleviating them.