Coping with Social Anxiety

Social anxiety disorder is a long-lasting and overwhelming fear of social situations.

It usually starts during the teenage years. For some, it gets better as they get older. For many, it doesn't go away on its own.

It can be very distressing and have a big impact on your life. But there are ways to help you deal with it.

Social anxiety is more than shyness. It's an intense fear that doesn't go away.

It can affect your:

• everyday activities
• self-confidence
• relationships
• work or school life

Many people worry about social situations from time-to-time. Someone with social anxiety feels very worried before, during and after them.

You may have social anxiety if you:

• dread meeting strangers, starting conversations, speaking on the phone, working or shopping
• avoid or worry a lot about social activities - group conversations, eating with company, and parties
• always worry about doing something you think is embarrassing - blushing, sweating or appearing incompetent
• find it difficult to do things when others are watching
• fear criticism, avoid eye contact or have low self-esteem
• often have symptoms such as feeling sick, sweating, trembling or heart palpitations
• have panic attacks