Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Building Confidence and Connection

Understanding Social Anxiety

It’s normal to feel nervous before a presentation or when meeting new people.
But for some, that fear becomes overwhelming – not just before big events, but in everyday situations.

Social Anxiety Disorder (sometimes called Social Phobia) involves an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or negatively evaluated by others. People often describe it as feeling constantly self-conscious, worried about saying the wrong thing, or convinced they’ll come across as awkward or incompetent.

It’s estimated that around 11% of Australians will experience Social Anxiety Disorder at some point in their lives – making it one of the most common anxiety conditions.

Common Situations That Trigger Anxiety

Social anxiety can appear in many forms. Common examples include:

• Meeting new people or being the centre of attention

• Speaking up in meetings or classes

• Eating or writing in front of others

• Attending social events, dates, or parties

• Making small talk or initiating conversations

• Fear of being observed or judged online or in person

Physical symptoms often accompany these situations, such as blushing, sweating, trembling, nausea, or a racing heart. Many people recognise that their fears are excessive, but still feel powerless to control them.

Why Social Anxiety Develops

Social Anxiety Disorder usually arises from a combination of genetic vulnerability, past experiences, and learned thinking patterns.

For some, it develops after repeated experiences of embarrassment, criticism, or exclusion. Others may have a more sensitive threat system – quickly detecting potential social danger (like rejection or disapproval).

Psychologically, social anxiety is maintained by self-focused attention and avoidance:

• People monitor themselves (“Am I shaking?” “Do I sound stupid?”) instead of focusing on the conversation. This self-focus can unintentionally make interactions feel less natural, reinforcing the fear of being judged.

• Avoiding feared situations provides short-term relief but reinforces the fear in the long term.

Over time, this cycle can reduce confidence, increase isolation, and limit opportunities for connection or career progress.

How Social Anxiety Can Be Treated

The good news is that Social Anxiety Disorder is highly treatable.

At MindSure Psychology, we use evidence-based approaches designed to help you gradually face and reduce your fear of social judgement.

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): The most effective and well-researched treatment for Social Anxiety. CBT helps identify self-critical thoughts, challenge fear-based assumptions, and use gradual, supported behavioural experiments (exposures) to build confidence in real-world social situations.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Helps reduce the struggle with anxious thoughts, allowing you to connect more fully with your values and relationships.

In some cases, medication prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist may be combined with therapy for additional support.

At MindSure Psychology

At MindSure Psychology, we understand that social anxiety isn’t about shyness – it’s about fear and over-self-awareness that can feel paralysing.

We work collaboratively and at your pace to help you:

• Understand the patterns maintaining your anxiety,

• Develop practical tools for managing self-criticism, and

• Reconnect with the parts of life you’ve been avoiding.

With structured, evidence-based support, many people find that their confidence, relationships, and enjoyment of life begin to grow again.

If you’re ready to start reducing anxiety and rebuilding confidence, you can book a confidential appointment today.