What's going on? People don't want to socialize

Unwillingness to socialize may be caused by introverted personality, social anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, autism spectrum disorder, and other factors. It can be improved through psychological counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, social skills training, supportive groups, and other methods.

1. Introverted personality

Introverted individuals typically tend to be alone and expend energy in social interactions rather than gaining energy. This group of people often have a greater need for deep communication than casual acquaintances, which may manifest as selective socialization rather than complete avoidance. Introverted personality is influenced by innate neural types, and the brain is highly sensitive to neurotransmitters such as dopamine, making excessive stimulation prone to fatigue. There is no need to view introversion as a problem, but one can try the progressive exposure method and adapt from low-intensity socializing.

2. Social anxiety

Patients with social anxiety disorders have an excessive fear of negative evaluations, often accompanied by physiological reactions such as palpitations and sweating. This type of situation may be related to overactive amygdala, where the brain incorrectly recognizes social scenes as threats. Typical manifestations include worrying about gatherings a few days in advance and excessive reflection on one's words and actions. The combination of systematic desensitization therapy and relaxation training has a good effect, and in severe cases, short-term use of anti anxiety drugs such as paroxetine can be used.

3. Depressive emotions

During a depressive episode, there may be a decrease in interest and social withdrawal, accompanied by a decrease in energy and a lack of pleasure. Neurobiological studies have found that this is associated with decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex and abnormal serotonin levels. Patients often describe themselves as having difficulty brushing their teeth, let alone seeing people. It is necessary to distinguish between temporary low mood and persistent depressive disorder, with the latter requiring a combination of antidepressants such as sertraline and regular exercise intervention.

4. Traumatic experiences

interpersonal trauma such as campus bullying or emotional betrayal may lead to defensive social avoidance. Traumatic memory can alter the functional structure of the hippocampus and amygdala, leading individuals to form a conditioned reflex of 'contact with humans equals danger'. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy can effectively handle traumatic memory, and rebuilding a sense of security requires stable supportive relationships.

5. Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder individuals have congenital social communication barriers, making it difficult to understand nonverbal signals and social rules. Neurodevelopmental abnormalities lead to functional differences in the mirror neuron system, making empathy and social interaction difficult. Early behavioral intervention can enhance social adaptability, and in adulthood, structured social training can improve functionality. Improving social avoidance requires a comprehensive consideration of physiological and psychological factors. Maintaining a regular schedule and moderate exercise can regulate neurotransmitter balance, and supplementing with Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D may be beneficial. It is recommended to start recording feelings by writing a social diary and establish low stress connections through online communities. If accompanied by persistent low mood or physical discomfort symptoms, seek timely evaluation from a psychological or psychiatric professional. The improvement of social skills is like muscle training, which requires continuous practice within a manageable range.