Social Anxiety and teaching?

Question

I got my M.A in history with training in Archival Administration. That, however, was not ultimately what I wanted to do. I wanted to pursue a Ph.D. , become a professor and contribute to the field. I do, however, have social anxiety. I am considering applying to a Ph.D. program but I don't know if I will ever be able to teach with this disorder. Does anyone know if the current treatment works, possibly the point where I can pursue my dream? Or am I relegated to something I don't really have a passion for.

Answer 1

There are actually a number of meds out there right now that treat social anxiety quite well.  Depending on how severe it is, your doctor should be able to help you get it under control.  Psychologist sessions working out the fear is usually more beneficiasl than most people would think, between the two, it is likely you can overcome it to where you can reach your goals.  However, bear in mind that you can still contribute to your field through research.  And you may want to consider offering your services as a tutor to small groups, like two or three students......as an exercise, and to acclimate you to the atmosphere of teaching.  You could do it for pay, but if no one bites, offer it for free.  Work your way up, trying to find slightly larger groups of students to talk to.  For that matter, there may be opportunities for you in Church or other social situations to help you build your confidence.  Maybe by just getting up in front of Church and making the bulletin announcements;  until what yoiu are doing is  brief appearances in front of large crowds and  longer appearances in front of smaller crowds (tutoring small groups).until you can merge the two.  Good luck to you.

Answer 2

Speaking in front of a crowd for the first time is an anxious thing  for most people, so you're not alone!

Like the 1st answerer said, practice makes perfect. You could join a toastmaster club for exposure. For all you know you could use this teaching experience to overcome your social anxiety!  

Seeing a psychologist/psychiatrist would help, whether you would like to take medication is up to personal choice, something which you can discuss with a psychiatrist.

Personally for me, my big breakthrough came when i realised that it is not others judging me that created my anxiety and that I was in fact projecting my own judgments upon myself through 'them'[social anxiety]. For my general anxiety, I began to care less about the world (not in a reckless way of course!) and just be more accepting of circumstances. The Beatles song 'Let it be' comes to mind.

This website might be helpful for social anxiety:

http://www.utdallas.edu/counseling/selfh...

And lastly, some books on personal/spiritually development can offer a fresh perspective. I'll personally recommend 'A New Earth' by Eckhart Tolle. If you want a feel of the book: http://www.oprah.com/obc_classic/webcast...

GL!

Answer 3

SSRI's work quite well for the management of social anxiety disorder.  In combination with selective beta blockade, you may find it significantly more comfortable.  Contact your physician for assistance with this.

Best regards.