Blur and Scale Filter Glass Filter Grayscale Filter Liquid Filter Neon Glow Filter Oil Paint Filter Paper Cut Filter Pixelate Filter Turbulence Filter Vintage Filter

Skip to main content
Person experiencing friendship anxiety
Home Blog

Friendship Anxiety: Understanding and Overcoming Social Fears

Discover the impact of friendship anxiety on social interactions and mental health. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and effective strategies for overcoming social fears and fostering lasting friendships.

Published on:

Friendship anxiety is a common struggle that affects how we connect with others. Learn what it is, why it happens, and how it can impact your mental health and social life.

Friendship anxiety is the worry or fear of forming and keeping friendships. This can make social situations feel stressful, causing self-doubt and insecurity when interacting with others.

Discover the main reasons behind friendship anxiety, like past experiences and low self-esteem, and recognize the signs that can help you manage this challenge.

Friendship anxiety can come from bad past social experiences, fear of rejection, or low self-confidence. Identifying these causes can help you better understand and address the issue.

Overcoming friendship anxiety is possible with helpful strategies like practicing social skills, seeking therapy, and gradually facing social situations to boost your confidence.

Start by challenging your fears, using positive self-talk, and taking small steps to interact with others. Therapy can also provide professional guidance and support.

Boosting your confidence in social interactions involves setting simple social goals, practicing conversations, and focusing on your strengths. Support groups can also be helpful.

To build confidence, start with small social goals, practice talking to others, and highlight your positive traits. Joining support groups can offer helpful advice and shared experiences.

Our compassionate therapists are here to help you overcome friendship anxiety and regain control of your social life and mental health.

Meet Some of Our Expert Therapists

Nedra Everett

Nedra Everett

LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with expertise working with diverse populations. My background encompasses a wide range of areas including trauma, crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, anger management, parent coaching, grief and bereavement and relationship interventions.

View Nedra's Profile
Elisa Frazier

Elisa Frazier

LCSW
C-DBT

I firmly believe that everyone has the potential to live a satisfying life, regardless of their past actions or current pain. My approach is to let the client set the pace and move towards their goals, while I support them every step of the way.

View Elisa's Profile
Joseph Spagnola III

Joseph Spagnola III

APRN
PMHNP-BC
FPA
MSN

With over 10 years of experience in healthcare and psychiatry, Joe is skilled in outpatient, evidence-based treatment of the following conditions, among many others.

View Joseph's Profile
Saad Khan

Saad Khan

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

My approach to treatment is transparent, specific, time based, and derived from the most recent research. I use simple and clear language during our meeting.

View Saad's Profile
Tia Doyle

Tia Doyle

LCSW

My overall goal is to give people support and space to have ongoing conversations about how to address and improve specific situations. I look forward to being the support system you need to get through hard times. I am here to help you be the BEST you!

View Tia's Profile
View All Therapists

Insurance Coverage Made Simple

We accept most major insurance plans and offer low self-pay rates to ensure quality care is accessible to everyone. Your well-being is our priority, and we're here to help regardless of your financial situation.

Friendship anxiety is the fear or nervousness about forming and maintaining friendships. It can lead to feelings of insecurity and worry about social interactions.
Dealing with friendship anxiety involves practicing social skills, seeking support from a therapist, and gradually exposing yourself to social situations to build confidence.
Overcoming friendship anxiety requires addressing underlying fears, engaging in positive self-talk, and taking small steps to interact with others. Professional support can also be beneficial.
Friendship anxiety can be caused by past negative social experiences, low self-esteem, or fear of rejection. Understanding the root causes can help in addressing and managing the anxiety.
Yes, therapy can help with friendship anxiety by providing strategies to manage social fears, improve self-esteem, and develop healthier social skills.
Building confidence in making friends involves setting small social goals, practicing social interactions, and focusing on your strengths and positive qualities.
Yes, support groups for friendship anxiety are available and can provide a safe space to share experiences and gain support from others facing similar challenges.
Friendship anxiety can affect mental health by increasing feelings of isolation, lowering self-esteem, and causing stress. Managing the anxiety is important for overall well-being.

Our Therapy Centers in DuPage County

We also offer online therapy sessions for your convenience.

Lombard Therapy Center

9 Therapists at this location

Our Lombard office is conveniently located near the Yorktown Shopping Center, offering easy access from I-355 and I-88. The modern facility provides a welcoming environment for therapy sessions.

Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

2200 S Main St suite 217e, Lombard, IL 60148

Clarendon Hills Therapy Center

7 Therapists at this location

Our Clarendon Hills office is situated in a peaceful setting near the Metra station, making it easily accessible for commuters. The location offers a serene atmosphere perfect for counseling sessions.

Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

219 W. 55th St. Suite 202-203 Clarendon Hills, IL 60514

Wheaton Therapy Center

1 Therapists at this location

Our Wheaton office is centrally located near the College of DuPage, providing a convenient location for students and families. The office features comfortable spaces designed for therapeutic work.

Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

600 W Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187

Related Articles

More articles
Users Team Message Circle Contact Map Pin Maps
Integrative Family Counseling Logo