Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is a common mental health condition which can really impact on your daily life. It can affect anyone, including celebrities like Adele, Julia Roberts, Zayn Malik and Emma Stone. They have all bravely spoken out about their issues recently.

Social anxiety is an intense fear of social situations, meeting new people and eating in front of others. It is much more than shyness or nervousness and deep down the fear stems from being watched, judged, rejected or humiliated by others. The fear is so strong that it causes avoidance behaviours which in turn causes isolation and low self-esteem.

Social anxiety can be debilitating, interfering with school, work and relationships. Studies show that social media is contributing to an increase in this mental health condition, especially with the younger generation. It can feel very lonely and others make social situations look easy on social media platforms, creating an illusion. Christmas time can be the worse time, the dreaded work Christmas parties, New Years eve and even family can be overwhelming. The fear of being centre of attention feels much worse at this time of year.

With the right support social anxiety can be managed and treated. It is not a weakness or failing it is a mental health condition. If you or someone you know is suffering with this condition, please reach out. Together we can create a world where no one needs to face their fears in silence.