The least effective treatment for shyness is for the shy person to try to get over it
himself. People who try this force themselves to interact with others and may use
alcohol and drugs to help relax. Unfortunately, drugs and alcohol only make the problem
worse over the long run as the person runs the risk of becoming addicted and unable to
function alone.
Some experts feel an effective treatment for shyness is psychotherapy. This treats the
underlying anxiety that causes the shyness. Such methods may include correcting
negative thoughts, rehearsing social interaction, and doing self-esteem building
exercises. Other experts focus on improving the shy person's communication skills with
a speech class or interactive group setting.
Whatever the treatment for shyness, it is best for the shy person to begin to reach out
in ways that are most comfortable to him. He may want to practice communicating in
email or chat rooms online, which tends to be less threatening to many people than
face-to-face interaction. Or he may want to practice social skills with friends or
family members with whom he feels comfortable. The goal is to eventually feel
comfortable enough to reach to whomever he wants, whenever he wants.
Try hypnosis as a
treatment for overcoming shyness.