It can be frustrating and challenging when someone close to you, like your mom, doesn't understand your social anxiety. There could be various reasons why this is the case:
Lack of Personal Experience: If your mom has never experienced social anxiety herself, it might be difficult for her to fully comprehend the extent of what you're going through. It's not easy for someone who hasn't experienced it to understand the intense feelings of fear and discomfort that social anxiety can elicit.
Misunderstanding or Underestimation: Sometimes, people may underestimate the impact of social anxiety, thinking that it's just shyness or something that can be easily overcome. They might not realize the severity of the emotional and physical distress it can cause.
Cultural or Generational Differences: Older generations might have different attitudes towards mental health compared to younger ones. In some cultures, mental health issues are not well understood or openly discussed, leading to a lack of awareness and empathy.
Coping Mechanisms: People often have their ways of coping with stress and anxiety. Your mom might not understand why certain situations trigger your social anxiety since those situations may not affect her in the same way.
Fear of Enabling: Some parents might fear that accommodating social anxiety could reinforce avoidance behaviors, making it harder for you to confront your fears. As a result, they may push you to face situations that feel overwhelming to you.
Communication Barriers: Effective communication about mental health can be challenging. You might find it challenging to articulate your feelings, and your mom might not know how to ask or respond in a way that supports you.
What can you do?
Educate: Share resources and information about social anxiety with your mom. This could be articles, videos, or even personal stories from people who have experienced social anxiety. Help her understand what you're going through.
Communicate: Try to have an open and honest conversation with your mom about how social anxiety affects you and what specific situations trigger your anxiety. Explain the difficulties you face while shopping in person, so she gains more insight into your experiences.
Seek Support: If your mom is open to it, invite her to attend a therapy session with you. A therapist can help explain social anxiety and its impact on your life, providing a professional perspective.
Patience: Changing attitudes and understanding may take time. Be patient with your mom as she processes and learns about your social anxiety.
Connect with Supportive Communities: Seek out online or local support groups where you can connect with others who experience social anxiety. Sharing experiences with like-minded individuals can provide validation and understanding.
Remember that it's essential to take care of yourself and prioritize your mental well-being. If your mom struggles to understand, seek support from other sources, such as friends, mental health professionals, or support groups, who can offer empathy and guidance.