Dear Practo user,
I understand that difficulties in Eye contact may interfere with everyday social interactions. People who look others in their eye are perceived as friendly and welcoming. However, many shy and socially anxious people have difficulty with this part of communication. Without a diagnosed mental health condition, avoidance of eye contact could be related to shyness or a lack of confidence. For better clarity and diagnosis it’s adviced to visit a clinical psychologist.
Next Steps
Visit a Clinical Psychologist
Health Tips
1. Start small with people who make you feel less anxious, such as a good friend, and work your way up to more anxiety-provoking situations such as holding eye contact with your work supervisor.
2. Establish eye contact at the start. Make eye contact before you start talking to someone.
3. Use the 50/70 rule. Maintain eye contact 50% of the time when speaking and 70% when listening.
4. Look away slowly. When you look away, do it slowly. Looking away too quickly (darting your eyes) may make you appear nervous or shy.
5. Make a gesture. Break your gaze to make a gesture or to nod, as this appears more natural than looking away because you may've grown uncomfortable with the amount of eye contact.
6. Look near the eyes. If looking someone directly in the eyes is too stressful, instead look at a spot on their nose, mouth, or chin.
7. Look for 4–5 seconds. Hold eye contact for about four to five seconds at a time, or about as much time as it takes you to register the color of their eyes. When you break eye contact, glance to the side before resuming your gaze.
It is adviced to consult a clinical psychologist for proper treatment and management.