Social anxiety and stage fear
सामाजिक घबराहट (सोशल एंग्ज़ायटी)
Social anxiety is more than shyness. It is a strong fear of being judged or embarrassed that leads people to avoid classes, interviews, meetings or social events.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Fear of speaking in class, meetings or on stage
- Blushing, sweating, trembling voice in front of others
- Avoiding eating, writing or phone calls in public
- Worrying for days before an event
- Replaying conversations afterwards with shame
Causes
- Temperament, family tendency
- Bullying, criticism or embarrassing experiences
- Avoidance keeps the fear going
Risk factors
- Shy or inhibited temperament from childhood
- Being teased, bullied or harshly criticised
- Family history of anxiety
How it is diagnosed
- Strong fear of being judged or embarrassed in social or performance situations
- Avoiding classes, interviews, phone calls or eating in front of others
- Lasting for months and affecting studies, work or relationships
Classification: ICD-10 F40.1 · ICD-11 6B04
Treatment options
- 1CBT focused on social fears and self-focused attention
- 2Step-by-step exposure and social-skills practice
- 3Antidepressant medicines for moderate–severe cases
- 4Specific help before interviews or presentations
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT focusing on self-focused attention and "safety behaviours"
- Step-by-step practice of feared situations
- Social skills and assertiveness practice when helpful
Guidance for family
- Do not label the person as "arrogant" or "too shy" — this is an anxiety condition
- Praise small social steps rather than pushing big ones
- Help them practise at home, for example a phone call or ordering food
When to see a psychiatrist
- Fear stops you from studying, working or making friends
- You use alcohol to cope with social situations
- Low mood or loneliness is building up
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Is it just shyness?
Shyness is mild and doesn't stop your life; social anxiety causes strong distress and avoidance.
Can online therapy help social anxiety?
Yes — many people find it easier to start from home.
Are beta-blockers useful for stage fear?
Sometimes, for physical symptoms on specific occasions — only after a doctor checks they are safe for you.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.