What is social anxiety?
Is Anxiety really a thing?
“Anxiety” gets thrown around so often — in headlines, TikToks, and everyday conversation — that it’s easy to forget it’s more than just a buzzword. But make no mistake: anxiety is a very real and often overwhelming mental health condition. In fact, nearly 1 in 3 young adults experience it, according to major mental health organisations.
There’s been a noticeable rise in anxiety diagnoses in recent years, especially among young people — likely linked to things like social media pressure, economic uncertainty, and the general chaos of modern life.
While social anxiety is less common than general anxiety, it can be just as isolating and disruptive if left untreated. It’s not just “being shy” — it’s a persistent fear that can hold you back in relationships, work, school, and everyday situations.
So what is social anxiety anyway?
Let’s be real — social anxiety isn’t just “being shy” or “needing to come out of your shell.” It’s more like your brain is on panic mode every time you have to speak up in a meeting, answer a phone call, or god forbid… make small talk at a party.
It usually kicks in during your teenage years (because puberty wasn’t chaotic enough) and for many of us, it just sticks around like an awkward third wheel. Without support, it tends to linger — but the good news? You can do something about it. And no you don’t need to spend tonnes on therapy although if it's severe you should probably consider it.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
You might have social anxiety if you:
worry about everyday activities like meeting new people, starting conversations, making phone calls, working, or shopping
avoid social activities or feel intensely anxious about them, including group conversations, eating with others, and parties
constantly worry about embarrassing yourself through actions like blushing, sweating, or appearing incompetent
struggle to perform tasks while others are watching—feeling as if you're constantly under observation and judgment
fear criticism, struggle with eye contact, or suffer from low self-esteem
experience physical symptoms such as nausea, sweating, trembling, or heart palpitations
experience panic attacks—brief but intense episodes of overwhelming fear and anxiety that typically last a few minutes
How can I make it stop?
If social stuff is draining the life out of your day-to-day — school, work, friendships, or even just ordering coffee — it’s totally okay to ask for help. A GP can refer you to a mental health specialist (they’ve heard it all before, no need to impress them).
Or, skip the awkward waiting room altogether and self-refer to an NHS talking therapy service online.
That said, let’s be honest: private therapy can be expensive, and NHS services often come with long waiting lines that feel longer than your overthinking spiral. It’s frustrating, and you’re not alone if that’s been a barrier for you. But don’t let that stop you — even being on the list is a step forward, and there are still things you can try in the meantime (self-help, support groups, and free resources — like this blog!).
Therapy is great, but it’s not the only path — healing can start small, right where you are.
