Social anxiety is a strong, persistent fear of being observed or judged in social or performance settings. It often causes people to avoid everyday tasks like making phone calls, requesting assistance whilst shopping, or eating in public, and usually lasts longer and feels more intense than typical nerves before important events.
People with social anxiety may blush, sweat, tremble, experience a racing heart, nausea, or shaky voice. They often worry about embarrassment, fear judgment, ruminate on social interactions, avoid gatherings, stay unnoticed, or use “safety behaviours” like wearing headphones or only attending events with alcohol.
Social anxiety can be partly hereditary and shaped by temperament or experience.
Talking to a therapist or using self-help methods like mindfulness and deep breathing can be beneficial.
Athletes with social anxiety may fear judgment from others, which can distract them and hinder performance. Some turn to individual sports for relief, but this can cause isolation and limit coping skills, further affecting their performance.
Individuals with social anxiety often spend considerable time reflecting on past interactions, even those that appear minor. They may also prepare for future scenarios in advance to mitigate apprehension about upcoming events, a practice which can inadvertently reinforce persistent concerns.
It doesn’t have to feel this way. By allowing space to acknowledge and process uncomfortable emotions, social situations can be transformed into experiences that are lively, pleasant, and calm. Be in touch for support.