Mental health
Medicines for Social anxiety disorder
An intense, persistent fear of social situations and being judged that interferes with daily life — very treatable, especially with talking therapy.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Social anxiety disorder?
Social anxiety disorder is more than shyness: it is an intense, persistent fear of social or performance situations in which a person worries about being judged, embarrassed or humiliated. This can include everyday activities such as speaking to people, eating in front of others, or being the centre of attention.
- How it is treated: The most effective treatment is a talking therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) tailored to social anxiety, which helps people understand and gradually change the thoughts and avoidance that keep the fear going.
- Self-care: Gradually facing feared situations rather than avoiding them, reducing alcohol used to cope, practising relaxation and self-help techniques, and staying connected to supportive people all help alongside treatment.
- When to seek help: See a GP or self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies if fear of social situations is affecting your daily life, work or relationships.
What it is
Social anxiety disorder is more than shyness: it is an intense, persistent fear of social or performance situations in which a person worries about being judged, embarrassed or humiliated. This can include everyday activities such as speaking to people, eating in front of others, or being the centre of attention. It often causes physical symptoms — blushing, sweating, a racing heart, trembling or nausea — and people may avoid situations or endure them with great distress, which can limit work, study and relationships. It commonly starts in the teenage years. It is common and, importantly, very treatable, so it is worth seeking help rather than struggling alone.
How it is treated
The most effective treatment is a talking therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) tailored to social anxiety, which helps people understand and gradually change the thoughts and avoidance that keep the fear going. In the UK, people can often self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies. Some people also benefit from medication, decided with a clinician, and self-help resources and support groups can help. Reducing alcohol used to cope, and building up exposure to feared situations gradually, support recovery. With treatment, most people can significantly reduce their anxiety and reclaim activities they had avoided.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Social anxiety disorder
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Gradually facing feared situations rather than avoiding them, reducing alcohol used to cope, practising relaxation and self-help techniques, and staying connected to supportive people all help alongside treatment.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP or self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies if fear of social situations is affecting your daily life, work or relationships. Seek urgent help if you have thoughts of harming yourself (Samaritans 116 123, or 999 in immediate danger).
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Social anxiety disorder: frequently asked questions
Is social anxiety just shyness?
No — it is more intense and persistent than shyness, causing significant distress and avoidance that interferes with daily life. It is a recognised, treatable condition.
How is social anxiety treated?
The most effective treatment is CBT tailored to social anxiety, often available via NHS Talking Therapies (self-referral in the UK). Some people also benefit from medication.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NICE CG159 — Social anxiety disorder
- NHS — Social anxiety
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