Social Anxiety

What is Social Anxiety? 

Social anxiety disorder is also known as social phobia which is a long-term and overwhelming fear of social situations.

It’s a very common problem which can be very distressing and have a big impact on a persons life where everyday activities, self confidence, relationships and work or school life are negatively effected.

Social anxiety is more than shyness as there is a significant amount of excessive worry and anxiety before, during and after a social event.

Other symptoms of Social Anxiety may include:

• Increased worry and anxiety of meeting strangers, group gatherings starting conversations, speaking on the phone, texting or sending emails, working or shopping.
• Increased worry and anxiety about public speaking with the fear of making a mistake or appearing incompetent.
• Worry a lot about social activities, such as group conversations, eating with company and parties
• Fear about doing something you think is embarrassing, such as blushing sweating or appearing incompetent.
• Having thoughts that people find you weird or boring
• Fear of being watched or judged by others in social situations.
• Avoid or leave social situations.
• Avoid eye contact or redirect questions away from speaking about you.
• Nausea/feeling sick, sweating, trembling or a heart racing are common physical symptoms that occur during social interactions.
• Mind going blank is a common symptom that can occur in social situations where there is increased anxiety.

CBT is one of the most an evidence based psychological intervention for the treatment for social anxiety.