Social anxiety involves an intense fear of and anxiety in social situations. This anxiety stems from a fear of being judged by others or the concern that they will do or say something embarrassing in front of others. Social anxiety can be limited to one specific situation, for example going to parties where the individual does not know very many people, or social anxiety can impact all aspects of an individual’s life.
Social Anxiety
Social Anxiety
Thoughts & Fears
You may be worried that someone does not like you. You may be scared that you’ll say or do something embarrassing in a social situation.
Physical Symptoms
You may feel physically unwell at the thought a social situation. You may experience nausea, a rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, or blushing.
Mental Stress
You may need time to mentally prepare for an upcoming social event. In social situations you may find that your mind is going blank. You may also over-analyze conversations and interactions.
What Are Symptoms of Social Anxiety?
The avoidance of the social situation maintains the individual’s social anxiety as it reinforces the belief that social situations are dangerous and eliminates the possibility that the person will learn that the situations is not as bad as they feared. This makes the individual more likely to avoid social situations in the future.
Cognitive Symptoms
Anxiety in social situations where it's possible to be judged by others (meeting new people, parties, eating or drinking)
Fear that others will notice anxiety
Fear of social rejection
The intensity of the anxiety experienced does not match the actual threat level of the situation
Behavioural Symptoms
Avoiding or being reluctant to engage in social situations
Anxiety negatively impacts work, leisure, or school
Common Treatment for Social Anxiety
There are a variety of treatment methods for social anxiety. Your therapist can recommend what they think will work best for you,. Below are two of the most common types of treatment.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy teaches clients to recognize how their thoughts impact their feelings and behaviours and to help them evaluate their thoughts to ensure they are in line with the facts of a situation.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
This type of therapy teaches clients to accept their thoughts without trying to change them. Acceptance in this case does not mean that you enjoy the experience or accept that the thoughts are accurate but simply that you let yourself experience what you are experiencing whether it is positive or negative without trying to alter that experience. It also helps clients see their thoughts as ideas/their interpretations rather than facts, be present in the moment rather than worrying about the future or the past, and behave in accordance with their values rather than in order to reduce or avoid their anxiety.
Therapists Who Can Help
Check out our experienced team of therapists specializing in social anxiety disorders and find the perfect fit for you.
Social Anxiety Self-Help
Find worksheets, workbooks, and general information to use at home and help overcome social anxiety.
Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment
St Joseph’s Hospital provides a great overview of treatment options available, as well as links to resources for social anxiety.
Recommended Readings For Anxiety
Find a list of recommended books, articles, and other resources that can provide more insight into social anxiety and other anxiety disorders.
