Everyone feels socially awkward at times, but for some people shyness can become an overwhelming problem, limiting social and career opportunities, and severely restricting life goals. Rooted in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques, Coping Successfully with Shyness is packed full of advice on what to do if you feel disempowered or embarrassed. It looks at how to understand and manage those feelings of discomfort, and how to rebuild confidence in a lasting way. Topics include: * Defining shyness and social anxiety * Situations which trigger shyness * Mapping your individual problem * `I've tried so hard' - identifying failed solutions * How thinking patterns drive social anxiety * Common themes such as being hyper-critical of yourself, or being anxious about others' responses * Managing physical reactions to anxiety * How to help someone with shyness * What to do if self-help isn't enough * Tips and hints, including checklists

Author Biography

Margaret Oakes is a trainee counselling psychologist and airline pilot with a specialist interest in mental health disorders. Professor Robert Bor is a Lead Consultant Clinical Psychologist at the Royal Free Hospital, and author of 30 books. Dr Carina Eriksen is a registered and chartered clinical psychologist with an extensive London-based practice. She is author or co-author of several books.