心理教室

Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)

Statistics show that among the many anxiety-provoking situations people face, public speaking ranks first—including both internal and external company meetings. In other words, speaking in front of an audience is one of the greatest fears for most people. Why is this so? Quite simply, we fear criticism from others or worry that we are not capable enough.

Even when the audience behaves normally, we may still imagine that they dislike us, are uninterested, or find us boring. Some may even think poorly of themselves—feeling useless or inadequate. As a result, some people try to avoid social situations altogether to reduce anxiety.

However, modern society places increasing importance on communication skills and the ability to perform under pressure. In the workplace, people are expected to present themselves well, while schools emphasise presentations and project-based learning, with oral exams being unavoidable. Under such scrutiny, social anxiety can easily arise.

From clinical experience, many students and professionals who rely on strong communication skills experience immense pressure and may already be suffering from social anxiety disorder. This article aims to deepen public understanding of the condition.

 

Case Study

Mr. Leung, aged 22, works in an advertising company where he frequently presents campaign ideas to supervisors and clients. He is highly regarded for his creativity, and his work has even won awards. For him, generating ideas is not difficult—the real challenge is facing clients.

Whenever he presents, he feels extremely uncomfortable and awkward. Initially, some clients were very critical, which caused him to lose confidence and doubt his abilities. Over time, he developed a strong fear of presenting, constantly worrying about being criticised, embarrassed, or humiliated.

What worries him even more is that others might notice his anxiety and judge him as weak or incompetent. Before presentations, he experiences a rapid heartbeat, trembling hands, blushing, and a blank mind. When faced with many people watching him, he becomes overwhelmed and cannot perform, even if well-prepared. He may stutter or be unable to speak at all. Neither self-relaxation nor encouragement from colleagues helps. This problem has seriously affected his career and caused him great distress.

Eventually, Mr. Leung realised he needed to overcome this obstacle or risk stagnation in his career. He decided to seek professional counselling.

Through counselling, he learned that his social anxiety was linked to his upbringing. His father had been very strict and authoritative, making him afraid to speak freely at home. Although his workplace was generally relaxed, certain serious clients reminded him subconsciously of his father, making him feel threatened. In particular, older, stern-looking men triggered feelings of insecurity, preventing him from focusing during presentations.

After eight counselling sessions, his condition improved significantly. He came to understand his social anxiety disorder and learned that it could be overcome. Through cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), he gradually faced his fears, improved his focus, and rebuilt confidence—leading to better career performance.

 

Statistics

Research indicates that about 2% of people in Hong Kong meet the criteria for social anxiety disorder—equivalent to around 130,000 individuals experiencing severe anxiety in social situations. Like Mr. Leung, their fears significantly impact their work and social lives. Due to embarrassment or shame, many do not seek help.

 

Symptoms

Common symptoms of social anxiety disorder include:

• Fear of social situations
• Fear of situations requiring performance (e.g. presentations, interviews, meetings)
• Fear of interacting with strangers (e.g. dining in restaurants)
• Fear of being judged or criticised
• Fear of embarrassment or humiliation
• Avoidance of social situations or enduring them with intense anxiety

 

Self-Help Tips

If you recognise several of the above symptoms, you may be experiencing social anxiety disorder. The following suggestions may help reduce anxiety:

• Focus your attention on the conversation and others, rather than on your own performance or perceived shortcomings
• Prepare thoroughly before presentations or interviews and practise regularly to build confidence
• Gradually challenge yourself to speak in different settings (e.g. among friends, classmates, colleagues)
• Question negative thoughts such as “People don’t like me,” “I’m useless,” or “I will embarrass myself”
• Relax your body and regulate your breathing
• Encourage yourself with positive thoughts, such as “I have succeeded before; I can do it again”
• If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, seek professional counselling

 

Expert Advice

Professional psychological counselling is effective in treating social anxiety disorder. Research shows that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can significantly reduce symptoms within 4 to 8 sessions. More severe cases may require up to six months of treatment.

You can overcome social anxiety disorder—seek professional counselling as soon as possible.

Information provided by Hong Kong Psychological Counselling Centre
The Hong Kong Psychological Counselling Centre is a private organisation offering comprehensive counselling services. It has over ten therapists with different areas of expertise, providing in-person counselling for individuals and families. Appointments can usually be arranged within seven days, and all information is kept strictly confidential.
Tel：6676 4236	Website：www.hkpcc.hk