What we treat

It's normal to feel nervous in many social situations but in social anxiety disorder there is an intense fear of being scrutinised or judged by others.

In social anxiety disorder, previously called social phobia, everyday interactions cause self-consciousness and embarrassment.

Most people with social anxiety disorder who receive therapy finish feeling better and more able to manage their symptoms.

Shyness vs Social anxiety

Feelings of shyness in certain situations aren't necessarily signs of social anxiety disorder. Some people are naturally reserved and others are more outgoing.

In contrast to shyness, social anxiety disorder includes fear and avoidance that can disrupt your life.

Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of social anxiety disorder may include:

• Fear of situations in which you may be judged

• Worrying about embarrassing or humiliating yourself

• Intense fear of interacting or talking with strangers

• Fear that others will notice that you look anxious

• Fear of physical symptoms that may cause you embarrassment, such as blushing, sweating, trembling or having a shaky voice

• Avoiding doing things or speaking to people out of fear of embarrassment

• Avoiding situations where you might be the centre of attention

• Having anxiety in anticipation of a feared activity or event

• Enduring a social situation with intense fear or anxiety

• Spending time after a social situation analysing your performance and identifying flaws in your interactions

• Expecting the worst possible consequences from a negative experience during a social situation

These symptoms may cause difficulties in day-to-day activities such as work, studying, social activities or relationships with others.

Other struggles

Read more about the other difficulties we treat:

Stress

Depression

Worrying lots about different things

Illness anxiety

Flashbacks or nightmares of a trauma

Obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviours

Specific phobias

Panic attacks

Perceived flaws in appearance

Loss or bereavement

Expressing anger

Problems in relationships

Talking therapy

If you could be struggling with social anxiety disorder, read about the talking therapies we offer to see how they could help you. You may also like to read some feedback and encouragements by those who received therapy with us.

Self-help resources

Be sure to check out our useful section of self-help resources for wellbeing.

Employment advice

Alongside therapy our Employment Team can help you find employment or training, and support you with workplace adjustments or disputes.