From lonely caterpillar to social butterfly: Five ways to beat your social anxiety

3. Focus on quality not quantity

   Social skills are like a muscle - use them or lose them. The only way your social skills are going to improve is with practice, but it's also important to know your limits. Life coach, Kate James, says that knowing yourself and the types of social situations you enjoy can be a great place to start.

   'Understand the social settings that are a struggle for you, and the kinds you're more likely to enjoy. Then do your best to manage your time so that you're not overloading yourself with commitment.

   'For example, if you're an introvert who loathes big social gatherings, you probably wouldn't want to say yes to three parties in a weekend, because by the end of the weekend you'll be exhausted. Instead, pick one and make it a priority,' she explains.

4. Be prepared.

   Both Dr Reeves and Kate recommend preparing some conversation starters before an event so you have something to chat about if you find yourself faced with an awkward moment.

   It's also perfectly acceptable to walk up to a group of people at a party if you're on your own and ask them if they mind if you join them.

   'People are surprisingly friendly, and it's a simple fix for something that can seem so terrifying,' says Kate.

   One change: Do your homework before an event - read the paper and watch the news. You'll find it easier to ask questions and join conversations if you feel like you've got something to contribute.

5. Join a club.

   If you're keen to meet new people and get more involved in a hobby, consider joining a club. It might feel cliche, but think about what you like to do and what you'd like to learn. From sports teams to hiking clubs, there's bound to be a group of like-minded people you can join.

   One change: If a trip to the dentist sounds more appealing than the thought of arriving at your first meet alone, Dr Reeves suggests reaching out to the club organisers to see if they can arrange a 'buddy' for you.

If social anxiety is interfering with your ability to function on a daily basis, you might like to consider seeing a therapist, who can give you more bespoke tools to overcome your nerves.

Disclaimer:
The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional, tax or other advice. It does not take into account any individual’s personal situation or needs. You should consider obtaining professional advice from a financial adviser and/or tax specialist, or medical or health practitioner, in relation to your own circumstances and before acting on this information.