Social anxiety disorder (sometimes called social phobia) can involve an intense, persistent fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social situations. It is different from ordinary shyness and can affect day-to-day life. Support is available, and a qualified professional can help you consider options.
The therapeutic relationship itself is often the first low-stakes social interaction where someone with social anxiety can be fully honest without fear of judgement, which is valuable in its own right. Beyond that, therapy helps you examine and challenge the beliefs you hold about yourself in social situations, beliefs like 'people are judging me' or 'I'll say something stupid', and to gradually re-engage with the social world on your own terms.
General information, not medical advice. Editorially checked against UK clinical guidance and NHS information. Reviewed .