Yaar, you ever stand outside a dawat, holding your phone like it’s your emotional support animal, pretending to text someone just so you don’t have to make awkward eye contact?
Been there. Done that. And if you’re reading this, chances are you’ve RSVP’d “Insha’Allah” to more events than you’ve actually shown up for.
Quick answer: Dealing with social anxiety means recognizing your triggers, practicing small exposure, and building self-confidence without forcing yourself into situations that drain you.
Now, let’s break it down before you cancel another hangout “because you have a headache” (aka Netflix and chai night).
Why Social Anxiety Feels Like a Boss-Level Challenge
For Pakistanis, social anxiety can be next-level because:
- Aunties are investigative journalists when they ask, “Beta, shaadi kab?”
- Every gathering has at least one “log kya kahenge” moment.
- Small talk often turns into deep life interrogations.
Social anxiety isn’t just shyness. It’s a mix of fear, overthinking, and feeling like everyone’s silently judging your every move, kind of like a cricket match where you’re the only batsman and the entire stadium is full of critical uncles.
The Pakistani POV – Our Cultural Pressure Cooker
Growing up here, you’re expected to be social whether you like it or not. Engagement parties, eid milans, chai sessions… even when you’re trying to track your TCS package, someone will start a conversation.
And don’t get me started on weddings. If you skip, people act like you missed the World Cup Final.
Main culprits for our anxiety:
- Overcrowded events: No personal space, just perfume and samosa smells everywhere.
- Comparison culture: “Dekho tumhari cousin ne CSS clear kiya.” (Bro, I’m just trying to clear my head, not exams.)
- Gossip Olympics : Where the gold medal goes to whoever spots your flaws first.
How to Actually Deal With It (Without Losing Your Mind)
Here’s the tea (and maybe some pakoras):
1. Start Small
Don’t jump from “avoiding WhatsApp groups” to “hosting a 50-person barbecue.”
- Begin with short meetups.
- Have a “safe friend” you can stick with.
- Use excuses wisely (“Mujhe jaldi nikalna hai” works every time).
2. Prep Like You’re Giving a Presentation
Not kidding. Think of a few topics before you go to current cricket updates, new Pakistani dramas, or that viral meme everyone’s sharing.
3. Control Your Environment
Choose venues where you feel comfortable. Cafes, not concert halls. Small dinners, not full-on desi shaadis.
4. Use the “Anchor Trick”
Hold something in your hand; cup of chai, your phone, even a plate of biryani. Gives you something to “do” so you’re not awkwardly standing around.
5. Know When to Bounce
It’s okay to leave early if it’s overwhelming. Socializing is not an endurance test.
Related Struggles You Might Face
While you’re working on your anxiety, you might also want to learn:
- How to earn money online (so you can work from home if needed).
- How to prepare for CSS exams (because overachieving relatives never stop asking).
- Fun outing spots in Pakistan (for when you do feel ready to go out).
What Nobody Tells You
- Social anxiety doesn’t magically “go away”, you manage it over time.
- You can still be an introvert and live a great life.
- People are usually too busy worrying about themselves to notice your awkwardness.
Think about it half the time, everyone’s just wondering when the biryani will be served.
Witty Wrap-Up
Social anxiety in Pakistan is like trying to find a quiet spot at a Lahori food street. It’sdifficult, but not impossible. Start small, know your limits, and remember: Logon ki sochnay ki duty hai, tumhari nahi.
So… tell me, am I the only one who has mentally rehearsed ordering chai at a café 10 times before actually saying it? Drop your most awkward social anxiety story in the comments. And please share this with your cousin who ghosts every family event.
