This daily prompt is 1 day late but social anxiety. Over the years I’ve somewhat overcome it الحمدلله but that’s not to say it’s not still there. I think what escalated my social anxiety was the covid time lockdown. I do still have it here and there but it’s not like before; I think especially after having children you just become more social as a person when you are around others. I’m not confident or outspoken around those I am not super close with but I’m okay and not super anxious, so that’s a win for me. I actually read a book regarding social anxiety a few years ago, which was pretty useful الحمدلله. I also ended up taking therapy for it a long time ago as it was affecting me regularly. Through it I did learn different techniques etc to stop feeling so anxious.

My aunt did tell me once I don’t need to worry and as you grow and experience life, you will naturally feel less shy. My mum and aunt were also very shy growing up but that’s hard to imagine for my aunt as she’s very outspoken now. I think it’s important to remember that in Islam, shyness is good and you should have it in front of non mahrams as that’s part of modesty. However, in front of mahrams and other women you would like to feel comfortable and not experience social anxiety. Whoever’s experiencing social anxiety, I would advice them to slowly put themselves in social settings and surround themselves with people they enjoy being around. Also, don’t forget to just be yourself.