Social phobia treatment

A social phobia is a fear of situations where you have to interact with people. You are afraid to be judged, to fail or to look foolish. You may realize that your fear is not realistic, but that doesn’t help. Physical reactions include trembling, blushing or sweating. Thus, a social phobia often manifests as a fear of trembling, blushing or sweating. In the worst case hyperventilation or a panic attack can occur. A social phobia can be triggered in all kinds of situations, such as:

• Entering spaces filled with people, e.g. a store, waiting room or party room
• Ordering something in a bar or restaurant (fear of trembling)
• Being introduced to new people
• Public speaking
• Talking to supervisors or authorities
• Eating out with others
• Being judged, for example during a job interview or performance review

The fear often already arises when you are only thinking about these situations. You try to avoid them as much as possible, and if you can’t, you act as inconspicuously as possible. Many people try to control their fear with alcohol, drugs or medication. A social phobia can be a real hindrance to your career. Maybe you avoid job interviews, training courses, meetings; everything that involves people. In your private life it may be difficult to find a partner or build friendships. In short, there’s plenty of reason to address the problem.