Krystal M. Lewis, PhD is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Co-Director of Education with the Section on Development and Affective Neuroscience at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Director of the Clinical Psychology Externship Program at the National Institutes of Health. Her group at NIMH (SDAN) studies how information processing in the brain may vary across youth with symptoms of anxiety and depression using neuroimaging and biobehavioral methodology. Dr. Lewis completed her pre-doctoral internship and post-doctoral fellowship training at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago. Dr. Lewis is passionate about the provision of clinical care, training, and mentorship and uses culturally informed, developmentally appropriate, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Her clinical and research interests are focused on identifying mechanisms of change in psychological treatment for pediatric anxiety and mood disorders.
Article2 min read
What Is Social Anxiety?
- Krystal M Lewis PhD
- Oct 1, 2025
- 2
Social Anxiety Can Quietly Control Your Life... But There’s a Way Through It
For many women, the fear of being judged, laughed at, or simply noticed can shape how they move through the world. Social anxiety isn't just shyness—it's a persistent and overwhelming fear that turns everyday interactions into high-stakes situations. It can affect relationships, work, school, and your overall sense of safety in your own skin.
What Social Anxiety Really Feels Like
Imagine struggling to order a coffee, speak in a meeting, or introduce yourself to someone new—because your body and mind are sounding internal alarms and you’re unsure of what to say. For women, the pressure to be “socially graceful,” accommodating, or well-liked can heighten these fears. Thoughts race: What if I say something stupid? What if they’re judging me? What if I make a mistake and everyone sees it?
The physical symptoms are just as real: a pounding heart, sweaty palms, a dry mouth, dizziness, or even headaches. Even when the threat isn’t real, the fear feels completely valid.
When It Starts to Interfere with Your Life
Social anxiety can hold women back from taking up space—whether that’s speaking in class, asking for a raise, dating, or even making a phone call. It can make friendships feel impossible and cause you to avoid opportunities that might lead to growth or connection.
Over time, this fear of social judgment can lead to loneliness, sadness, and in some cases, unhealthy coping mechanisms. We must understand that anxiety is often perceived as a weakness, but it’s definitely not one—it’s the result of a very real and isolating disorder.
There Is Help, and Healing Is Possible Too!
The good news? Social anxiety doesn’t have to control your life. With the right support, it’s possible to feel more confident and grounded in social situations. Through therapy, management strategies, and compassionate guidance, many people with social anxiety learn to face fears gradually, practice new skills, and feel braver over time.
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