Social Anxiety Disorder

1) What it is

Social anxiety is an intense fear of being judged, rejected, or seen negatively by others.

2) What it feels like

• “Everyone is watching me.”
• “I’m awkward.”

3) Common signs & symptoms

• avoidance
• blushing, shaking
• mind going blank
• replaying conversations

4) Why it happens

• bullying or humiliation
• low self-esteem
• perfectionism
• anxiety traits

5) Triggers

• groups
• speaking
• attention

6) What helps now

• tiny exposure steps
• shift focus outward
• reduce safety behaviours

7) Daily self-help support

• repetition builds confidence

8) Professional treatment options

• CBT
• exposure therapy
• group therapy

9) Medication

Medication may help severe cases, GP-led.

10) Practical tips

• confidence follows action

11) When to seek urgent help

Urgent help if:

• isolation worsens mood

12) Where to get help (UK)

• NHS Talking Therapies
• GP
• Mind

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