Written by Madeline Enervold, LCSW
Social anxiety often tells us that mistakes are dangerous, that we must be perfect, and that being seen is something to fear. Theatre and performance gently challenge those beliefs in a powerful, embodied way. On stage and in rehearsal spaces, we are invited to try, fail, experiment, and be witnessed in environments designed for growth, creativity, and play.
For people navigating social anxiety, theatre isn’t just art. It can be a form of emotional practice and personal empowerment.
The Joy of Making Mistakes Safely
One of the most powerful aspects of theatre is that mistakes are expected. Forgotten lines, missed cues, awkward timing, and unexpected reactions are all part of the process. Instead of being punished, mistakes are often met with laughter, curiosity, and collaboration.
This creates a rare and valuable experience:
- You learn that mistakes don’t equal rejection.
- You see that errors can be repaired.
- You discover that imperfection is not only survivable, but creative.
For someone with social anxiety, this can be revolutionary. The nervous system learns, over time, that being seen while imperfect does not lead to danger. Theatre becomes a rehearsal space for real life, where trying is more important than getting it right.
“Acting As If”: An Adlerian Principle in Action
Adlerian psychology introduces the idea of “acting as if”—behaving as though you already possess the confidence, courage, or calm you are working toward. Theatre embodies this principle naturally.
When you step into a role, you:
- Speak boldly even if you feel nervous
- Take up space even if you usually shrink
- Express emotions even if vulnerability feels risky
By acting confident, brave, or expressive, your brain begins to experience those qualities as possible and accessible. Over time, the boundary between “acting” and “being” starts to soften. What began as performance becomes internalized truth.
You’re not pretending to be someone else—you’re practicing who you’re becoming.
Want to learn more about Adler’s “As If” technique? Check out this resource!
Building Empathy Through Character Exploration
Theatre asks us to understand people different from ourselves. Characters have motivations, fears, flaws, strengths, and histories that shape their behavior. Exploring them builds empathy in two directions:
- For others
You learn that behavior always has a context. This helps reduce judgment and increases compassion for people in real life.
- For yourself
When you play complex characters, you begin to view your own emotions and struggles with more kindness. You see that fear, insecurity, and hesitation are human traits, not personal failures.
For those with social anxiety, this shift is powerful. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with me?” the question becomes, “What is my nervous system trying to protect?”
Theatre as a Gentle Form of Exposure
Performance offers a structured way to practice:
- Being seen
- Using your voice
- Taking social risks
- Receiving attention
But unlike many real-life social situations, theatre comes with:
- Clear roles
- Shared goals
- Built-in support
- Predictable structure
This makes exposure feel safer, more contained, and more compassionate.
Final Thoughts
Theatre doesn’t eliminate social anxiety overnight, but it builds something just as important: trust in yourself. Trust that you can be visible. Trust that you can make mistakes. Trust that you can take up space and still be safe.
In a world that often pressures us to be polished and perfect, theatre offers something radical: Permission to be human.
If you’d like support in managing anxiety, you’re welcome to reach out to our team to schedule your first appointment!
About the Author:
Madeline Enervold, LCSW, is a therapist specializing in treating anxiety in clients of all walks of life. With her additional degree in theatre and background in theatre performance, Madeline appreciates the many benefits of performance, even in the therapeutic space.
