What we’re about
Social Anxiety Meetup of Austin (SAMOA) is made up of everyday people from all walks of life who just happen to be dealing with social anxiety.
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a persistent fear of one or more social or performance situations in which you are exposed to unfamiliar people or to possible scrutiny by others. You often fear that you will act in a way (or show anxiety symptoms) that will be embarrassing and humiliating. For those of us with social anxiety disorder, the following are some typical situations that can be very challenging:
Public speaking (e.g., presenting at a meeting)
Participating in meetings or classes (e.g. asking or answering questions)
Eating in front of others or ordering food at a restaurant
Using public washrooms
Writing in front of others (e.g. signing a cheque of filling out a form)
Performing in public (e.g. singing or acting on stage, or playing a sport)
Entering a room where everyone is already seated
Meeting new people
Talking to co-workers or friends
Inviting others to do things
Going to social events (e.g. parties or dinners)
Dating
Being assertive or expressing opinions
Talking on the phone
Working in a group (e.g. working on a project with other co-workers)
Returning something at a store
Having a job interview
If this is how you feel when you're around others or in a performance situation, then you've come to the right place. You are not alone.
SAMOA is a group of peers who support each other in negotiating life with social anxiety. Organizers and event facilitators are not therapists or counselors, but are instead volunteers who deal with social anxiety themselves. SAMOA fosters a safe and encouraging place for members to share information, talk about personal challenges, and participate in activities that may help to manage social anxiety. While SAMOA does not provide professional therapy or counseling, the majority of people who attend our events benefit by learning about and practicing techniques to challenge social anxiety, having opportunities to make friends, and by being part of an understanding community. Our events include support groups, workshops, anxiety exposure outings, and social events.
Thank you for your interest in SAMOA. Please consider taking that next step by joining our group.