Social Anxiety
According to the NHS, social anxiety is a long-term and overwhelming fear of social settings. Someone with social anxiety feels overly worried before, during and after them.
You may have social anxiety if you:
- worry about everyday activities, such as meeting strangers, starting conversations, speaking on the phone, working, or shopping
- avoid or worry a lot about social activities, such as group conversations, eating with company and parties
How can the University Support you?
If your anxiety is affecting your everyday life you can contact the University through the online Mental Wellbeing Referral Form.
We also offer several different support groups which you can access. Our schedule is available online.
You can also access support through the Tellmi app. Tellmi provides free digital mental health support, 365 days a year (on Android, IOS, and the web) to anyone aged 11+ across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Tellmi enables people to help themselves by helping each other. The community is anonymous and age-banded. Tellmi offers 1-2-1 text-based, solution-focused therapy with a qualified therapist. This therapeutic model is designed to help individuals think positively about their future and identify existing skills and strengths.
What to do next?
Samaritans
If you feel unable to cope and you need to speak with someone urgently please contact the Samaritans. They are available 24/7 and can be contacted on 116 123.
Contact your GP
If you have been experiencing anxiety for 6 months or more, you could arrange an appointment with your GP.
Online Referral Form
If you want to seek support internally through the University you should complete the online Mental Wellbeing Referral Form.
What should I do if I am worried about somebody else?
It can be difficult when someone you care about is experiencing anxiety or panic attacks. Please know that you are not obligated or expected to help someone. Instead you can signpost them to get help from others, this can be done by filling out the Online Referral Form.
If you want to help, there are things you can do to help. Here are some tips:
- Don't pressure them – Try not to put pressure for someone to do more than they feel comfortable with. Being patient and listening to their wishes is key.
- Try to understand their anxiety – Research online and try to find out as much as you can about their anxiety. You can also ask them about their experiences with their anxiety.
- Ask how you can support them – The person may already be aware of what they need when they are feeling anxious.
- Support them in seeking health – This could be through their GP or by contacting the University Mental Wellbeing team through the Online Referral Form.
- Make sure to look after yourself as well, if you feel that your mental health has been affected by this you can receive support by filling out the Online Referral Form.
External Resources
Last Updated: 8th October 2024