Are you uncomfortable or embarrassed at being the centre of attention? Do you find it hard to interact with people?

"I just hate being put on the spot"

"I would avoid courses and seminars because the thought of having to stand up and introduce myself filled me with dread"

"I go to pieces at interviews, I know I can do the job but I panic and the words just dont come out right"

"My friend wanted to take me to a party to meet lots of new people, my idea of hell!"

Do these statements sound familiar? People may tell you that you're shy, but you know it's not shyness - it's more than that. You get very anxious about certain situations, for example, if you have to interact with other people in a social setting, or if you have to make eye contact with somebody, or speak to someone directly or on the telephone (maybe it's your boss?). Do you start to blush and tremble? Does your heart start to beat faster? Maybe you begin to sweat?

You might have social anxiety disorder (sometimes known as 'social phobia'). It is surprising how many people do.

In it's simplest terms social anxiety or social phobia is a fear of people: of being around, having to interact with, being watched, criticized or judged negatively by, other human beings.

Social anxiety is characterized by an intense fear of situations, usually social or performance situations, where embarrassment may occur. Individuals with the disorder are acutely aware of the physical signs of their anxiety and fear that others will notice, judge them, and think poorly of them. This fear often results in extreme anxiety in anticipation of an activity, a Panic Attack when faced with an activity, or in the avoidance of an activity altogether. Adults usually recognize that their fears are unfounded or excessive, but suffer them nonetheless.

Symptoms of Social Phobia manifest themselves physically and can include:

Social Anxiety responds well to a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Hypnotic Suggestion. It also responds well in many cases to Analytical Hypnotherapy

Take that first step and contact us now for a free introductory consultation to discuss which method would best suit you.

"The Journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step"