What is social phobia?
Around 15 years ago whilst working as a senior executive in business, I too suffered from social phobia which eventually triggered panic attacks. Social phobia is a fear of behaving in an embarrassing way whilst you talk or meet other people.
This can lead to a number of psychological and physiological symptoms including:
• Dizziness
• Intense fear and panic
• Blushing and embarrassment
• Feeling faint
• Increased heart beat
• Sweating
• A feeling of wanting to escape
Sufferers can often feel as though they want to avoid situations where people will be present and as such this can affect an individual’s professional and private life.
Who has social phobia?
It is one of the most common psychological conditions. It is reported that up to 1 in 10 adults have social phobia to some degree and it can affect people from all walks of life. Over the years I have treated clients from a variety of backgrounds including managing directors, teachers, accountants, vets, sales professionals, politicians and other members of the public. In short social phobia can affect anyone.
What causes social phobia?
The cause may be a genetic make- up, bad experiences as a child, or may be a more recent development such as a reduced self esteem triggered by work. One study indicated that about half of affected people said their phobia began after one memorable embarrassing experience. The other half said it had been present as long as they could remember.
Clinical Hypnotherapy and Social Phobia
Registered Clinical Hypnotherapists can treat social phobia effectively by helping clients condition their ways of thinking. The hypnotherapist will help you understand your current thought patterns and use hypnotherapy to embed new belief systems. The process of hypnotherapy is both safe and relaxing. During sessions you will identify any unhelpful and false ideas or thoughts which have lead you to become anxious. During sessions the aim is to change your ways of thinking and help your thought process become more realistic and helpful. The hypnotherapy will embed these new thought processes, help you to relax, and increase your confidence.
How many sessions are required?
Clients normally attend between 3 and 6 sessions.
Are sessions confidential?
Sessions are strictly confidential and conducted in alignment with professional ethics.
How can I find out more information?
If you have any questions you can email hello@stevemillerhypnotherapy.co.uk or you can book your initial 3 session programme here.
