Overcome Social Anxiety Together.
SA Is More Common Than You Think
Social Anxiety Is More Common Than You Think
You’re experiencing a recognised condition, one that can be understood, managed and changed.
Takes less than 3 minutes
Not Just Shyness, Not Just Nerves
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is a persistent fear of social or performance situations where embarrassment, judgment, or rejection feel inevitable, even when there’s no real threat.
What SAD Really Looks Like
Social Anxiety Disorder isn’t always panic attacks or public meltdowns. Often, it’s quiet, constant and invisible to everyone else but exhausting to you.
Predictions
You predict the worst before it begins.
“It’ll go badly, I just know it.”
Hyperaware
You scan for signs you’ve messed up.
It’s like your brain never switches off.
Exposure
Small talk and intros feel unbearable.
“Everyone’s watching me.”
Muted
You hold back, even when you know.
“Better to say nothing than risk it.”
Avoidance
The fear starts long before the event does.
The stress beforehand feels overwhelming.
Rehearsal
You script responses in advance.
Even simple messages feel high-stakes.
Post-Mortems
You ruminate for hours after an event.
“They must think I’m odd.”
Dread
Everyday moments trigger fear.
“They’ll think I’m awkward.”
If these sound familiar, it’s not just you. You’re in the right place and this can change.
Most people with SA wait 10+ years before seeking help.
Why It Matters
Left untreated, SAD can limit career growth, strain relationships and increase the risk of depression. Most people wait over 10 years before seeking help but the sooner you start, the sooner things can change.
Dr.odhran McCarthy // Founder
Where It Comes From and Why It Sticks
It’s not your fault. But it's something changable.
Biological &
Genetic Factors
Some people are wired to react to social threat a mix of genetics and brain chemistry that makes anxiety feel more “switched on” from the start.
Upbringing &
Life Experiences
Bullying, criticism, or humiliating moments in childhood can wire the brain to see social situations as dangerous, even years later.
The Consistant
Avoidance Loop
One bad encounter can set off a loop. Avoiding situations to feel safe, but reinforcing the fear and making social anxiety harder to shake.
Cultural &
Societal Influences
High expectations, social media comparison, and stigma around mental health can make everyday interactions feel like high-stakes events.
Social Anxiety FAQs
These are real, raw questions we hear every day and the answers that start to bring relief.
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is a recognised mental health condition where everyday social situations trigger intense fear, anxiety, or self-consciousness due to worries about being judged, embarrassed, or rejected.
Most people feel shy or nervous sometimes, but social anxiety is more intense, happens more often, and can interfere with work, relationships, and daily life.
It usually develops from a mix of genetics, brain chemistry, and life experiences, especially early events that shaped how you think about social situations.
Yes. While it often begins in the teenage years, major life changes, trauma, or long-term stress can trigger it in adulthood.
Not always, but many people experience racing heart, sweating, shaking, blushing, or stomach discomfort during anxiety-provoking situations.
Yes. Some people fear very specific situations (like public speaking), while others feel anxiety in most social settings.
It can be. Ongoing isolation or avoidance caused by social anxiety can increase the risk of depression and other mental health challenges.
For some, symptoms lessen over time. But without support or coping strategies, it can persist or even get worse.
A mental health professional can make a diagnosis based on your symptoms, history, and how much anxiety is affecting your life.
Yes. With evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), many people significantly reduce symptoms and regain confidence.
You’re Not Alone, But You Might Think You Are
Social Anxiety hides well. People who seem calm may be overthinking every word. That doesn’t mean it’s “just your personality.” It the condition is doing what it does best: Keeping you quiet.
Dr.odhran McCarthy // Founder