The Hidden Struggle: How Social Anxiety Affects Everyday Life

Written by Navya K P, Clinical Psychologist at Absolute Mind, Kannur.

Social anxiety is more than just shyness or nervousness in social situations. It’s a persistent fear of being humiliated, judged, and rejected by others. The fear that people with social anxiety disorder experience in social situations is so strong that they feel it is beyond their ability to control. This uncontrollable worry disrupts daily life of the person, even in everyday activities such as eating or drinking in front of others, using a public restroom, or other tasks like speaking in a meeting, attending a social event, or even answering a phone call can. These situations can feel overwhelming.

Exposure to such social situations almost always provokes fear, and people often shows physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, a racing heart, rapid heart rate, muscle tension, dry mouth, urinary urgency, upset stomach. These physical symptoms often accompany emotional distress, creating a cycle of avoidance and isolation.

However, social anxiety is treatable and manageable. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective approach, helping individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns. Mindfulness techniques and gradual exposure to feared situations also play a significant role in building confidence and resilience.

If you or someone you know struggles with social anxiety, know that you’re not alone. Seeking support is a courageous first step toward reclaiming your life. By opening up the conversation about social anxiety, we can reduce stigma and foster greater understanding.

Let’s create a world where everyone feels empowered to connect, share, and thrive—one step at a time.