Mental Health & Wellbeing Resource Library · Anxiety series
Social anxiety
Social situations can bring a strong fear of being judged or embarrassed.
Understanding
Social anxiety is a strong, ongoing fear of social situations, often linked to worries about being judged, criticised or embarrassed. It can happen in conversations, classes, meetings, shops or while eating in front of others. It is more than being quiet or occasionally nervous.
Someone may want to join in while still feeling intense anxiety about what others might think.
Signs & symptoms
- Worrying a long time before an event and replaying it afterwards
- Avoiding calls, conversations, group activities or eye contact
- Blushing, sweating, shaking, feeling sick or noticing a fast heartbeat
- Assuming small mistakes will be noticed or judged harshly
Not everyone has every sign. The concern is how much distress or avoidance it causes.
How it can affect you
Social anxiety can make friendships, learning, interviews, appointments or asking for help feel difficult. Avoidance may ease fear for a moment, but it can also reduce confidence and opportunities over time.
People may mistake anxiety for disinterest. A trusted person can help by listening without pressure.
Coping strategies
- Pick one small social step, such as saying hello or asking a short question
- Before an event, plan a helpful first step rather than trying to control every outcome
- During a conversation, bring attention to what the other person says instead of checking your symptoms
- Afterwards, note what actually happened and speak with your GP if the fear is limiting your life
Progress may be uneven. Repeat a manageable step rather than judging one difficult day.
Support services in Kirklees
Your GP: Explain what you have noticed, how long it has been happening and what it is making harder. A GP can discuss assessment and suitable support.
Kirklees Talking Therapies: Explore the service’s current referral information for anxiety support. Check its eligibility and options directly.
Other local support: The Kirklees Council mental health directory lists local services. If you are supporting a child or young person, use the children and young people’s support page.
General information only. It does not diagnose a condition or replace professional advice. Read the NHS guide to social anxiety for more detail. Last reviewed for this site: 29 September 2026.