You’re Not Alone, and Recovery Is Possible
Welcome to More Than Shyness. I’m so glad you’re here!
Whether you’re struggling with social anxiety disorder (SAD), supporting someone who is, or simply curious, you’re in the right place. My name is Norm, and this website chronicles my journey from crippling social anxiety to a life of connection and meaning.
Social anxiety is more than just shyness. It’s a deep-rooted fear of judgment, embarrassment, or rejection that can hijack your ability to speak, connect, or even just be yourself around others. It doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people fear public speaking, while others dread everyday interactions like making a phone call or joining a conversation. For some, it’s mild. For others, it can take over their life.
While SAD can feel overwhelming, there’s real hope. With the right tools, support, and consistent effort, many people experience significant improvement, and some recover fully. There are proven treatments, both professional and self-guided, that can help you move forward. Even if it doesn’t feel that way right now, things can get better—and they often do.
My Journey
In my late teens, I felt like an alien who didn’t belong in this world. I was an impostor, pretending to be normal while constantly fearing I’d be exposed and rejected. Deep down, I believed I was uniquely and incurably broken.
Then one day, everything changed. I looked up my symptoms online and discovered three life-altering truths: my condition had a name, I wasn’t alone, and effective treatments existed. As I dug deeper and read others’ stories, I realized that as bad as things had been for me, they could have been much worse. I promised myself that if I ever found a way through, I’d help others do the same.
Through years of trial and error, small steps and setbacks, my world gradually opened up. Today, I live a life I once thought was out of reach. And I’ve never forgotten that promise. This website is one way I’m keeping it.
What You’ll Find Here
- My Blog: I post regular articles covering everything from practical tips and personal reflections to evidence-based techniques. You’ll find stories of recovery, insights into therapy methods like CBT and ACT, and encouragement for every step of your journey.
- My Book: More Than Shyness is the book I wish I had forty years ago. It’s a deeply personal account of my recovery, including missteps, breakthroughs, and tools that worked (and some that didn’t). It’s not a miracle cure but an honest, practical guide written with the hope that it can help others along their own journey.
- In-Person Support Groups: I’m building a platform to help people find or start local support groups for social anxiety. I’ve experienced how transformative these groups can be for both participants and facilitators. It’s still in development, but if you’re interested, click the link to stay informed.
- Newsletter: Get insights, new blog posts, and updates delivered to your inbox. No spam, just helpful content to support your journey.