Social anxiety isn’t just in your head—it’s in your brain.
Here’s what happens:
- Amygdala on High Alert: This fear center becomes overactive, making social situations feel threatening.
- Overthinking Brain: The prefrontal cortex fuels worry, self-criticism, and rumination.
- Chemical Imbalance: Lower serotonin and dopamine can increase anxiety and reduce social reward.
- Fear Loop: Avoidance strengthens anxious brain pathways, making it harder to break the cycle.
The good news? Therapy—especially CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness—can retrain your brain and help you feel more confident and at ease.