[Introspheric87]

Recognising social anxiety and other anxiety related conditions as a hidden disability so that people with social anxiety can access support and request more adjustments in the workplace so that they can work more effectively to the same standard as everyone else. Too often highly introverted people are seen as loners, stuck up or just selfish when really it is just down to a different mindset and personality. There are many positive traits associated with introversion, like the need for thoroughness and attention to detail which means you are less likely to rush and make mistakes. Also the ability to be independent and self motivated. I have had social anxiety for 16 years from various causes such as school bullying, unrealistic family expectations and pathological self doubt. I have read some online articles linking social anxiety to underlying traits like autism or aspergers and while not everyone with SA will have these, it is probable that SA can develop from underlying issues that should be better understood. Not everyone likes the word disability but in all honesty social anxiety can feel really disabilitatibg in your ability to interact with others or handle change, limiting opportunities for progress.