CLINICAL COUNSELLING SPECIALTY:

Social Anxiety

Do you find yourself avoiding social situations—not because you don’t care about people, but because the fear of saying or doing the “wrong” thing feels too intense. Does the fear hold you back from opportunities, relationships, and experiences that you genuinely want to be a part of. Is so, you may be struggling with Social Anxiety.

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What is social anxiety?

Understanding Social Anxiety and When To Seek Help.

Social anxiety goes far beyond shyness. It’s a deep, persistent fear of being judged, rejected, or embarrassed in social or performance-based situations. Whether it shows up in group settings, one-on-one interactions, or even speaking up in a meeting, social anxiety can make everyday situations feel overwhelming.

Many people with social anxiety long for connection, but feel trapped by fear—worrying they’ll say the wrong thing, be criticized, or draw unwanted attention. This constant inner tension can lead to avoidance, loneliness, and a shrinking sense of confidence over time.

At Lyn Firth Counselling, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore the roots of your social anxiety and learn practical tools to manage it. Together, we’ll gently unpack the fears, build skills to navigate social situations, and help you reconnect with your voice—at your own pace.

With support, social situations can begin to feel more more than just managable – they can even be enjoyable.

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What social anxiety can Look Like

Signs and Symptoms of Social anxiety

Social anxiety doesn’t always look like panic. Sometimes it’s the quiet discomfort you feel walking into a room or the mental exhaustion after a simple interaction. Here are some common signs:

  • Fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in front of others
  • Avoiding social events, conversations, or eye contact
  • Physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, blushing, or rapid heartbeat
  • Overthinking or obsessing about what you said (or didn’t say)
  • Fear of being the center of attention
  • Avoiding speaking in groups, meetings, or public settings
  • Feeling frozen, quiet, or unable to think clearly when anxious
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WHERE DOES SOCIAL ANXIETY EVEN COME FROM?

Common Causes of Social Anxiety

Social anxiety often has roots in early life experiences and environments. Understanding the cause can help bring compassion to what you’re going through.

  • Being teased, criticized, or rejected as a child or teen
  • Growing up in an environment with high expectations or limited emotional support
  • Experiences of public embarrassment or failure
  • Feeling different, excluded, or misunderstood
  • Low self-esteem or perfectionism
  • Having a shy or sensitive temperament from a young age
  • Past trauma or bullying
  • Learning to suppress or avoid emotions to stay “safe” in social situations

hidden impact of social anxiety

How Social Anxiety Might Be Impacting Your Daily Life

If you’re living with social anxiety, you may be quietly struggling in ways that others don’t always see—but the effects can be deeply felt. Here are some common ways social anxiety can show up and interfere with your everyday life:

You Avoid Social Situations, Even Ones You Want to Be Part Of

Whether it’s turning down invitations, dreading meetings, or steering clear of new people, social anxiety can lead to a pattern of avoidance. You might find yourself missing out on opportunities, experiences, and relationships—not because you don’t care, but because the fear feels too overwhelming.

Work or Professional Life Feels Extra Challenging

Speaking up in meetings, sharing ideas, or networking might feel exhausting or even impossible. Social anxiety can make you doubt your voice or abilities, which can limit your growth and impact how you show up in your career.

You’re Hard on Yourself—A Lot

After a conversation or social event, you might replay it over and over, second-guessing what you said or worrying about how you came across. This constant self-criticism can chip away at your self-esteem and leave you feeling stuck or inadequate.

The Stress Feels Physically and Emotionally Draining

Social anxiety doesn’t just live in your thoughts—it can show up in your body, too. A racing heart, blushing, tense muscles, or a sense of panic can make everyday interactions feel like uphill battles, leading to ongoing fatigue and stress.

If any of this feels familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep navigating it on your own. Counselling can help you understand where this anxiety comes from, develop healthier coping strategies, and build the confidence to feel more at ease in your everyday life.

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WHAT YOU CAN DO

What You Can Do to About Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is treatable, and it doesn’t have to control your life. Here are a few ways to begin shifting your relationship with fear and connection.

Wondering if it’s time to seek professional help?

If social anxiety is keeping you from relationships, opportunities, or everyday experiences you want to enjoy, it may be time to talk to someone. Therapy can help when avoidance, fear, or overthinking begin to take the lead in your life—and you’re ready to feel more confident, connected, and in control.

Social anxiety often fuels itself with distorted thinking like “Everyone is judging me” or “I’ll embarrass myself.” Learning to identify and challenge these automatic thoughts helps reduce fear and gives you more realistic, empowering ways to interpret social situations.

Avoidance reinforces social anxiety. Gradually putting yourself in mildly uncomfortable situations—like asking someone for the time or making small talk with a cashier—helps build confidence and retrains your brain to see social interaction as less threatening over time.

People with social anxiety are often their own harshest critics. Practicing self-kindness helps reduce shame and fear of judgment. When you’re gentle with yourself, mistakes feel less catastrophic, and you’re more likely to keep showing up in social situations.

Instead of worrying about saying the “right” thing, shift your focus to being curious and genuine. Relationships are built on connection, not flawless performance—and most people are too focused on themselves to notice your mistakes anyway.

Social anxiety can be deeply rooted, and a counseller can help you explore the underlying causes, challenge unhelpful thinking, and develop personalized strategies. You don’t have to do it alone.

Progress with social anxiety doesn’t usually come in big leaps—it’s small wins that build momentum. Whether it’s making eye contact, attending a gathering, or introducing yourself to someone new, acknowledge your effort and courage.

“Social anxiety doesn’t mean you’re broken. It usually means you’ve been trying to protect yourself in the best way you know how. Together, we’ll build the confidence and self-trust to show up fully as you.”

– Lyn Firth, MPCC, RQS

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