Employee Advice Guide: Social anxiety

Employee Advice Guide: Social anxiety

Coping at Christmas with social anxiety

Suffering from social anxiety disorder (or social phobia) which is one of the most common mental health conditions affecting as many as 1 in 10 adults. It is an intense, persistent and debilitating fear of being watched and judged by others.

Even doing everyday tasks in front of people such as eating or drinking can cause a sufferer to feel humiliated, judged or rejected which makes them withdraw from social interactions.

Twice as many women as men are affected and it usually develops during teenage years. It can be a lifelong problem unless diagnosed and treated and the sufferer understands how to help themselves manage social situations.

The festive season can be difficult when suffering from social anxiety. In this month’s guide, we offer tips on how employees can still join in with Christmas cheer whilst limiting exposure to anxiety triggers.

Download guide