People with social anxiety may come across as shy, but their worries are much deeper than that - it's a fear that often does not go away without help

It is perfectly normal to have worries about social situations. But, for someone with social anxiety, these worries can feels overwhelming - before a social event, during and after.

Social anxiety (also known as social phobia) is the most common of all the anxiety disorders. It usually develops during teenage years, according to the NHS.

For some people, the condition improves as they get older. But, many people continue to struggle as adults, without treatment.

Social anxiety might stop some people doing things they like to do, including attending events (weddings, or work nights out, for example). It could also stop someone eating out or pursuing hobbies that may involve other people.

It might also affect important things you need to do, like getting to work or college or attending appointments where you have to talk to other people. You might also dread going to unfamiliar places and being around people you don’t know very well.

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of social anxiety can help you break those thoughts and regain your life. Below is information about what to look out for and what getting help can look like.

What are signs of social anxiety?

It's important to get help if you are having symptoms. The NHS lists the typical signs and symptoms that might point to you having social anxiety:

• Worry about everyday activities, such as meeting strangers, starting conversations, speaking on the phone, working or shopping
• Avoid or worry a lot about social activities, such as group conversations, eating with company and parties
• Always worry about doing something you think is embarrassing, such as blushing, sweating or appearing incompetent
• Find it difficult to do things when others are watching – you may feel like you're being watched and judged all the time
• Fear being criticised, avoid eye contact or have low self-esteem
• Often have symptoms like feeling sick, sweating, trembling or a pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
• Have panic attacks, where you have an overwhelming sense of fear and anxiety, usually only for a few minutes

Many people with social anxiety also have other mental health issues, such as depression, generalised anxiety disorder or panic disorder. The signs can be a little bit different when it comes to children.

If you are worried about your child, these are some indications they might have social anxiety:

• Crying or getting upset more often than usual
• Getting angry a lot
• Avoiding interaction with other children and adults
• Fear of going to school or taking part in classroom activities, school performances and social events
• Not asking for help at school
• Being very reliant on their parents or carer

What happens once I tell my GP about having social anxiety?

It's a good idea to see a GP if you think you have social anxiety, especially if it's having a big impact on your life. Asking for help can be difficult, but a GP will be aware that many people struggle with social anxiety and will try to put you at ease.

They'll ask you about your feelings, behaviours and symptoms to find out about your anxiety in social situations. If they think you could have social anxiety, you'll be referred to a mental health specialist to have a full assessment and talk about treatments.

You can also refer yourself directly to an NHS talking therapies service without a referral from a GP.

What treatments are available for social anxiety?

People don't have to 'just get on with it' if they have social anxiety. There are a number of treatments are available that can help you manage it.

The main options are usually cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with a therapist that helps you identify negative thought patterns and behaviours, and change them. This can be done with just you and a therapist, in a group or with your parents/carers.

People also find guided self-help, which involves working through a CBT-based workbook or online course with regular support from a therapist, beneficial. Antidepressant medicines can help but these are usually not used to treat children and young people.

CBT is generally considered the best treatment, but other treatments may help if it does not work or you do not want to try it. Some people need to try a combination of treatments to find the best solution for them.