Glossary
Social Anxiety Disorder
What is
Social Anxiety Disorder?
Social Anxiety Disorder is a mental health issue that can impact individuals in different ways. Understanding and addressing it through therapy can lead to improved well-being and quality of life.
What Is It?
Social Anxiety Disorder is a mental health condition characterised by an intense fear of social situations where one might be judged or embarrassed. This fear goes beyond shyness and can significantly interfere with everyday interactions, school, work, and relationships.
Common Experiences
People with social anxiety may worry excessively before social events, avoid eye contact, or fear speaking in groups. Physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, or a racing heart are common. Even routine tasks, such as eating in public or making phone calls, can feel overwhelming.
How It Can Affect You
Social anxiety can lead to isolation, low self-esteem, and missed opportunities. It may prevent people from forming friendships or pursuing careers. Therapy, especially cognitive-behavioural therapy, helps individuals challenge negative thoughts, build confidence, and gradually face feared situations in a supportive environment.
Ways Therapy Can Help
Providing coping strategies for managing social anxiety disorder
Creating a safe space to explore thoughts and emotions
Identifying triggers and underlying causes
Building resilience, confidence and improving self-esteem
