How to Overcome Social Anxiety: CBT Strategies, Safety Behaviours & Self-Confidence | Schoen Clin... скачать в хорошем качестве

How to Overcome Social Anxiety: CBT Strategies, Safety Behaviours & Self-Confidence | Schoen Clin...

Social anxiety is more than shyness. It’s often a persistent fear of social judgment that can affect friendships, dating, work meetings, group chats — even therapy itself. In this episode of Schoen Clinic Unscripted, we’re joined by Dr Bradley Powell (Clinical Psychologist & Psychotherapist) and Evangelia Mylona (Psychotherapist) to unpack what social anxiety really is, why it persists, and what actually helps. We cover: The textbook definition of social anxiety — and how it differs from shyness/introversion How long symptoms typically need to persist (often 6+ months) before it becomes clinically significant Common “masking” and safety behaviours, including: Alcohol to feel confident Smoking or “escaping” social moments Over-talking, joking constantly, filling every pause The social anxiety thought spiral: Physical sensations (blushing, sweating, racing heart) Catastrophic predictions (“They’re judging me”) Self-focus that pulls you out of the moment The deeper roots: how self-worth, shame, identity, and early messages (“you’re quiet”, “you’re shy”) shape adult social confidence The CBT model for social anxiety: beliefs → anxiety → safety behaviours → more anxiety Why avoidance can lead to underachievement, low mood, and missed life opportunities What works in therapy: Dropping safety behaviours (gradually, with support) Behavioural experiments (not just “force yourself to socialise”) Building inner safety, self-compassion, and self-acceptance Practical strategies for real life: Shifting attention externally (getting “lost” in the conversation) Checking the facts after social events “Zooming out” when post-event rumination hits Key message: Social anxiety is common — and it’s also one of the most treatable anxiety problems with the right psychological support. 🧡 Find out more about our specialists: Dr Bradley Powell: https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/speci (https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/speci...) alists/dr-bradley-powell (https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/speci...) Evangelia Mylona: https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/speci (https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/speci...) alists/evangelia-mylona (https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/speci...) Schoen Clinic Chelsea: https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/chelsea If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may be struggling quietly. Important note: This podcast is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you need urgent help, contact emergency services or local crisis support in your country. 🏥 About Schoen Clinic Chelsea This episode was recorded at Schoen Clinic Chelsea, a leading private mental health clinic in London. Our expert team of consultant psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists and therapists provide world-class care for conditions such as ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, burnout and more. We offer fast, confidential self-booking appointments and a full range of outpatient therapies to support recovery.