Welcome to the eighth module of LUNA
Congratulations! You have now made it through most of the LUNA program. Great job!
For Modules 8 through 11, we want to discuss some optional topics that will be helpful to some, but not all families. Each of these modules describe different ways to alter your plan of action based on different fears or barriers you could be facing. If you and your parent feel that any of these modules aren’t relevant for you, feel free to skip ahead to the next module. Be sure to discuss this with your parent before doing so, as it is important that you and your parent read the same modules each week.
This module will focus on social situations and social barriers that make it harder to overcome your fears. If any of your fears involve social situations, speaking with peers, or completing activities in public spaces, this module may be helpful for you. This module will introduce you to some skills that will help you as you interact with others and as you continue working on your plan of action.
Take a deep breath and reflect on your progress
Facing your fears is hard work, and we hope you are proud of yourself for all that you’ve accomplished so far. Before we talk more about social situations, take some time to reflect on how your plan of action practice has gone so far by using the Reflect on Your Progress worksheet or by viewing the questions below.
Social Fears
People struggle with social fears and anxiety for a variety of reasons. You could have trouble understanding what is expected of you in social situations, or you might worry about people thinking you are different or “weird”. Maybe you have been bullied or have had bad interactions with others in the past. If you relate to any of these statements, it makes sense why you might worry in social situations.
Just like any other fear, the most important thing you can do to overcome social anxiety is to face it head on. You can do this by gradually putting yourself in social situations that make you nervous.
If you have trouble understanding how relationships work or knowing what to say or do when interacting with others, it may help to have some extra guidance in this area. Because of this, we would like to give you some tools to help you better understand and navigate social interactions.
