Due to our fast-paced life, balancing the scales between our social stress and sanity is now tougher than ever. The Internet penetration across the world, lower attention spans, and the need to check our phones constantly have further catalysed the process of social isolation and the widespread growth of stress.
The pressures of work, juggling our relationships, and meeting societal expectations further take a toll on our mental well-being. The way out? Understanding the causes of social stress, its effects, and how to tackle stress head-on.
Effects of stress on social behaviour
As humans, we crave socialisation. We want to interact with others, exchange thoughts and feelings, build camaraderie, and connect. But, social stress can hinder this natural process if not kept in check. For example, if the stressors in your body are triggered that give rise to feelings of rejection and conflict, as a reaction, you might withdraw yourself from everyone around you and isolate yourself. If you have a fear of judgement and failure, your social stress will further increase. This will affect your confidence and prevent you from growing in life. Over time, it can lead to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and even depression.
How social stress differs from other types of stress
Unlike other types of stress that originate from physical scares, financial issues or work-related deadlines, social stress specifically occurs due to our interactions & bonds with others. It can be linked to peer pressure, social situations, and feelings of rejection or isolation. This is the main reason why it’s extremely important to choose carefully the people who you call your friend. They can either fuel your fire of social stress or calm you down with constant support. Social stress is linked to mental health. Each type of stress triggers different responses in our bodies. One will always be different from the other.
Causes of social stress
Social stress can occur due to -
Social isolation
Introverts often face this type of stress. They feel scared to interact with people or just want to stay in their own little bubble. But, too much social isolation can affect your mental well-being. It can even lead to conditions like anxiety or depression.
Troubled relationships
You can fight the whole world, but constant conflicts with your loved ones can throw your mental well-being out the window. Misunderstandings, disagreements, or prolonged tension within these relationships tend to create an environment of anxiety and stress. Managing these conflicts healthily is the only way to reduce social stress.
Failure
Let’s make this clear - No person in this world likes to fail. It triggers reactions in our body, namely, fear of judgement, loss of respect, & criticism. It can go as far as making us feel embarrassed or inadequate. The way out? Be kind to yourself, practise mental relaxation, and understand that today’s failure is for tomorrow’s success.
Social media and its impact on depression, anxiety, and social stress
It's safe to say that, today, the world is at our fingertips. The rise of social media has transformed the way we connect with others. However, it has also brought about new challenges. The effects social media has on mental health are getting more difficult to navigate with each passing day. Depression due to social media is becoming normalised and has become a common slang just for the sake of relativity.
Many research papers indicate a direct relationship between excessive social media use and higher levels of anxiety, depression, and social stress. We are being brainwashed into idealising individuals who are selling unrealistic dreams online - leading to feelings of inadequacy, insecurity, and isolation.
The more you uncover the layers of the causes of social stress, the closer you will come to understanding why social media's impact on mental health is real and scary. Maintaining caution at all times is the only way forward.
Social Stress on Students
Individuals who are the most susceptible to social stress are students. They’re the ones dealing with peer relationships, pressures of academic performance and the transition to adulthood. To top it all off, they also have to deal with endless expectations of family members while trying to stay relevant in the current digital ecosystem.
This social stress manifests via fear of judgement and performance anxiety, which can adversely affect their mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. The fear of rejection and the pressure to fit in can further cause stress and affect their confidence.
Changes in Mood and Emotional Well-being
You might have noticed emotional fluctuations in your body whenever you’re under stress. These changes in mood are primarily because of emotional instability in your life. Out of the many manifestations, anxiety and fear are the most common ones we feel. Irritability and anger are also moods that stem primarily from unresolved conflicts or peer pressure. Thus, leading to strained relationships and further isolation. These feelings are often coupled with bouts of sadness and despair often characterised by loneliness and a lack of support.
Finding a Balance: Addressing Social Stress and Promoting Connection
Social stress can easily take over and control your life. You will feel the ripple effect in your decision-making process & confidence. Here are some ways to take back the helm from stress in your hands.
- Find the sweet spot between isolating yourself and connecting with people. You don’t need to be an extrovert to interact with people for a while.
- Join clubs that will put you in uncomfortable situations and nudge you to grow in life.
- Seek support from your loved ones and share your deepest feelings unabashedly.
- Practice self-care and prioritise real, physical connections over virtual ones.
- Engage in activities like exercise & meditation. Pursue your hobbies to reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being.
Social stress has a significant impact on your daily behaviour but it does not have to take control of your life. You can also take our three60 De-Stress & Chill gummies to fight the battle against stress and anxiety. These gummies are yummy, highly effective, and non-habit forming. They’re little treats for your well-being. So, take proactive steps in fostering healthier relationships & promoting better well-being to ensure you’re always one step ahead of social stress.
FAQ
1) Is social stress a normal part of life?
Yes, social stress is a normal part of life as, sooner or later, everyone encounters this issue. It originates from common stressors like social isolation, troubled relationships, & dealing poorly with failures.
2) How does social stress impact sleep quality?
Stress of any kind has many manifestations. It can affect your sleep cycle, gut health, focus, & performance. Social stress will keep your mind active and worked up - affecting your sleep quality.
3) Are introverted individuals more susceptible to social stress?
Yes, people who are introverted tend to get shy or uncomfortable in a social setup. This seclusion, in the long run, leads to isolation and loneliness.
4) Can social stress impact physical well-being?
Yes, social stress can impact your physical well-being and lead to increased heart rate, weakened immune function, and elevated blood pressure.
5) Is social stress a serious issue?
Yes, social stress can lead to seclusion, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. It is an extreme issue and must be dealt with the utmost care and with professional assistance if needed.
