Social Anxiety
What is Social Anxiety?
Social Anxiety Disorder is more than shyness or feeling nervous around others. It is a condition where social interactions—like talking, meeting new people, or being observed—trigger intense fear or self-consciousness. People with social anxiety often worry they’ll be judged, embarrassed, or do something “wrong,” even when others see nothing unusual.
Biologically, social anxiety is linked to overactivity in the brain’s fear pathways and changes in neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. Genetics, stress, and temperament can all play a role.
Psychologically, social anxiety often forms a pattern of worry → avoidance → temporary relief → more anxiety. People may overthink conversations, replay interactions, or assume others are evaluating them harshly. Even though many want connection, fear makes social situations feel unsafe.
Social anxiety is common, real, and highly treatable.
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What Are the Symptoms?
Social anxiety looks different in every person, but common symptoms include:
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Intense fear of social situations
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Worry about being judged, embarrassed, or rejected
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Avoiding phone calls, social events, dating, public speaking, or group activities
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Physical symptoms: shaking, blushing, sweating, nausea, racing heart
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Feeling “on the spot” or unable to think clearly during conversations
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Overthinking or replaying interactions afterward
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Self-criticism or feeling “not good enough”
These experiences can impact school, work, relationships, confidence, and quality of life but treatment helps.
How Are Social Anxiety Treated?
Social anxiety is highly treatable, and the most effective care is personalized to each individual. Treatment may include:
Therapy
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Exposure therapy (gradual, gentle practice with support)
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Social skills training and confidence building
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Coping strategies for worry, panic, and self-criticism
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Changing unhelpful thinking patterns and building self-esteem
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Medication
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SSRIs: Common first-line meds.
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SNRIs: Mood + anxiety support.
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Propranolol: Reduces physical anxiety.
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Buspirone: Non-addictive daily anxiety med.
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Hydroxyzine: Fast relief for situational anxiety/sleep.
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Note: Optional; best with therapy.
Lifestyle & Support
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Reducing caffeine and stimulants
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Improving sleep and daily routines
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Stress reduction and grounding techniques
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Gentle exposure to social situations with support
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Encouraging connection instead of avoidance​
Advanced Treatment Options
For severe or treatment-resistant social anxiety:
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Ketamine or Esketamine (Spravato)
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TMS
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Combination therapy + medication
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Work with specialists if needed​
No single approach works for everyone, which is why individualized care matters.
How We Can Help at Better Balance Mental Health
We know social anxiety can make even reaching out for help feel overwhelming. Many people feel misunderstood, judged, or dismissed — but you won’t find that here. We provide care that is gentle, supportive, and never shaming.
We take time to understand your triggers, fears, and goals. We move at a pace that feels safe. We celebrate small steps and never push you into situations you’re not ready for. Treatment is collaborative you always have a voice in decisions, and we never pressure medication.
Our goal is to help you feel calmer, more confident, and more in control. You deserve relationships, connection, and a life where anxiety doesn’t hold you back.
You don’t have to face it alone we’re here to help, one step at a time.