Who Can Afford to be Shy in this Economic Climate?

January 4, 2012 – “As we begin the new year, public speaking anxiety remains the #1 fear in America and throughout the world,” said Psychotherapist Jonathan Berent, L.C.S.W., author of “Work Makes Me Nervous: Overcome Anxiety and Develop the Confidence to Succeed” (Wiley) and “Beyond Shyness: How to Conquer Social Anxieties (Simon & Schuster). “Fears of public speaking, along with a less understood condition, known as selective mutism, are ruining many careers. In this economic climate, it’s critical that people who suffer from these anxieties address the issue with a professional.”

Berent’s patients include investment bankers, physicians, lawyers, teachers, technology entrepreneurs, mental health experts, and many more types of professionals. Berent added that “at least 10% of the population suffers from public speaking anxiety, however, most never seek help due to embarrassment, shame, and humiliation. Many of these professionals are perfectionists. The last thing a perfectionist wants to do is admit that he or she is anything less than perfect.”

Consider the following:

Fear of talking in public (not just formal public speaking) is the #1 phobia;

The over-use of medication for anxiety disorders is increasing dramatically;

Surgery is now available for people who blush; and

The evolution of technology is breeding a social skills deficient society.

To access a library of rare clinical interviews with real patients, and for extensive and essential information, visit www.socialanxiety.com

Jonathan Berent, L.C.S.W. has provided psychotherapy for thousands of patients of all ages with social and performance anxiety since 1978. He is an experienced and engaging media presenter. To speak with Jonathan directly call 800-248-2034