Social Anxiety

What is social anxiety?

Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, is a mental health condition where a person experiences intense fear or discomfort in social situations. It often stems from a fear of being judged, criticised, or embarrassed. People with social anxiety may avoid certain situations altogether or experience extreme distress beforehand. This can impact personal relationships, work, and daily functioning, as the individual may feel overwhelmed by even routine interactions.

Signs and symptoms of social anxiety

Social anxiety can vary in intensity, but some common symptoms include:

• Intense fear of being judged: People may worry excessively about being criticised, embarrassed, or not measuring up to social expectations.
• Physical symptoms: These can include a racing heart, sweating, shaking, or even nausea in social situations.
• Avoidance: A person with social anxiety may avoid social situations, such as parties, public speaking, or meeting new people, to prevent feeling uncomfortable.
• Negative self-talk: Individuals may have persistent thoughts of being inadequate or undesirable, which can heighten anxiety.
• Trouble with social interactions: Even casual conversations may feel daunting, leading to difficulty making friends or participating in group activities.

How social anxiety develops

Social anxiety can develop for a variety of reasons. It may begin in childhood or adolescence and can be triggered by negative social experiences, such as bullying or humiliation. Genetics can also play a role, as people with a family history of anxiety disorders may be more likely to develop social anxiety. Additionally, environmental factors, such as parenting style or early trauma, can contribute to the development of the disorder.

The impact of social anxiety

Social anxiety can have a significant impact on various areas of life, including:

• Mental health: Those with social anxiety may struggle with depression, low self-esteem, or other related issues due to the distress caused by social situations.
• Relationships: Difficulty in forming or maintaining relationships can be a challenge, as fear of rejection or judgement can prevent meaningful connections.
• Work and school: Social anxiety can affect one's ability to succeed in work or school environments, where group interactions or presentations are common.
• Daily functioning: Everyday tasks, such as ordering food at a restaurant or speaking on the phone, can feel overwhelming for someone with social anxiety.

How to manage and treat social anxiety

Treatment for social anxiety often includes a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication to help manage symptoms:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most effective treatments for social anxiety. It helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, gradually desensitising them to feared social situations through exposure therapy.
• Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines for short-term relief.
• Social skills training: This can help individuals develop confidence and practice coping strategies for social situations.
• Support groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding, as well as offer valuable coping strategies from others who are experiencing similar struggles.

How we can help

If you or someone you know is struggling with social anxiety, support is available. Our experienced therapists can provide personalised treatment that combines therapy, coping techniques, and emotional support. We create a safe and non-judgmental space to help you face social challenges at your own pace and work toward building confidence in everyday interactions. With the right help, it is possible to manage social anxiety and lead a fulfilling, connected life.