Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a condition characterised by intense fear and anxiety in social situations. People with social anxiety disorder may worry about being judged, negatively evaluated, or rejected in a social or performance situation. This fear can be so severe that it interferes with their daily life, preventing them from attending school or work, socialising with friends, or dating.

The symptoms of social anxiety disorder can vary from person to person, but they may include:

• Fear of being watched or evaluated by others
• Worry about blushing, sweating, or shaking in social situations
• Avoiding social situations altogether
• Having a hard time speaking in public
• Feeling anxious or uncomfortable in small groups
• Having a hard time making eye contact
• Feeling self-conscious about their appearance

Social anxiety disorder is a common mental health condition, affecting about 15% of the population. It is more common in women than men, and it often starts in childhood or adolescence.

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy can help people with social anxiety disorder to understand their fears and develop coping mechanisms.