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Social situations are part of everyday life, but for some people they can feel overwhelming or frightening. Social anxiety disorder can affect conversations, work, study, relationships and the ability to take part in ordinary activities.
Recovery Scotland is an information and referral support service. We do not diagnose social anxiety disorder, provide clinical treatment or operate a clinic. We can help you understand support pathways and, where appropriate, discuss providers who may be able to assess your needs.
If anxiety, alcohol or drug use is affecting your safety or wellbeing, speak with a GP, NHS 24 on 111, a qualified mental health professional or an appropriate treatment provider. In an emergency, call 999.
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Recovery Scotland can offer confidential guidance about social anxiety and addiction support options. We do not provide treatment directly, but we can help you understand next steps and possible referral routes.
Contact us or call 01475 303998.
What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Social anxiety disorder is a mental health condition involving intense and persistent fear of social situations. It can involve fear of being judged, embarrassed, criticised or closely watched.
Common triggers may include:
- Making conversation
- Eating or drinking in public
- Speaking at work, school or university
- Meeting new people
- Using public spaces or public transport
Feeling nervous in unfamiliar settings can be normal. Social anxiety may need support when fear remains intense, leads to avoidance or disrupts daily life.
What Causes Social Anxiety?
Social anxiety disorder does not have one single cause. It may be linked to a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors.
Possible contributing factors include:
- Family history of anxiety or mental health concerns
- Bullying, criticism, rejection or early negative social experiences
- Trauma or long-term stress
- Low self-esteem or fear of judgement
- Alcohol or drug use that worsens anxiety over time
A qualified professional can help assess symptoms and recommend suitable support.
Suitable Social Anxiety Disorder Support
Support options may include GP advice, talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy, medication review where clinically appropriate, anxiety-management strategies, peer support, lifestyle changes and addiction support if alcohol or drug use is also a concern.
The right pathway depends on symptoms, risks, substance use and personal circumstances. A provider should explain what assessment is completed, who delivers care and what follow-up support is available.
Overcoming Anxiety With Professional Support
Anxiety can become difficult to manage when it controls behaviour, decisions or relationships. Professional support can help people understand triggers, reduce avoidance and build safer coping strategies.
Recovery Scotland does not provide social anxiety treatment directly. Where appropriate, we can help people explore providers who assess mental health and substance use needs together, including co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis support.
If you feel at immediate risk of harm, call 999. For non-emergency medical or mental health advice in Scotland, contact NHS 24 on 111 or speak with a GP.
Dr Alexander Lapa
- Author
- Last updated: June 17, 2026
Dr. Lapa (MBBS, PG Dip Clin Ed, OA Dip CBT, OA Dip Psychology, SCOPE Certified) graduated in Medicine in 2000 and has since gained extensive experience in various psychiatric settings, handling a wide range of illness presentations and patient backgrounds in inpatient, community, and secure environments. This experience has been complemented by ongoing professional development in postgraduate clinical research, closely linked to their daily work as an NHS and Private Psychiatrist.