If you’ve ever felt your heart race, your palms sweat or your mind go blank when you walk into a crowded room or start a conversation with someone new, you’re not alone. Many people feel anxious in social settings, even when surrounded by friendly faces.

Social anxiety is a common condition that affects how people think, feel and act in social situations. For some, it’s mild nervousness that fades once they get comfortable. For others, it can cause intense fear and avoidance that interferes with work, relationships and overall quality of life. But the good news is that with the right tools, you can feel calmer and more confident when you’re around others.

Click here for practical ways to feel calmer and more confident in social situations.