Social Anxiety
Social anxiety disorder, otherwise known as social phobia, is defined as, "an overwhelming and disabling fear of scrutiny, embarrassment or humiliation in everyday social situations which leads to avoidance of potentially pleasurable and meaningful activities."
It is a common disorder affecting approximately one to two in a hundred men and two to three in a hundred women Several factors have been identified as warning signs of social anxiety, including intense worry for days or even weeks before a planned social situation, excessive self-consciousness and anxiety in everyday social situations and avoidance of social situations in a way that restricts your activities and, in turn, your life. (adapted from Helpguide website)
How can we help you
- See Gateway Team - the access point to mental health services
- See Poole Book Prescription
For further information on social anxiety disorder:
"Overcoming Social Anxiety & Shyness" by Gillian Butler
Useful websites:
- Shyness and Social Anxiety
- Self Help Guide - Helpguide site - Social Anxiety and Social Phobia
- National Institute of Mental Health - Social Phobias
- Royal College of Psychiatrists - Leaflets
- Social Anxiety UK
Directgov